Scanner Automatic Target Detection via Light Differential
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current scanners require users to close the cover and press a switch to scan documents, which is cumbersome and inefficient, especially in high-speed processes, and can lead to erroneous operations due to external light interference and positioning issues.
Innovation Solution
A scanner with a transparent scan region, an image sensor, and a control unit that automatically detects the presence and correct positioning of a scan target by comparing light source on and off output signals, allowing for hands-free operation and accurate scanning without additional complex detection mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If additional detecting means is provided to automatically detect scan target positioning, then automation level is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor serves dual functions: it acts as both the scanning sensor for capturing document images and the detection sensor for automatically identifying scan target positioning. By making the image sensor multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate detection means, thereby improving automation while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The scanner system performs self-detection of scan target positioning using its existing image sensor and light source. The control unit automatically determines whether a scan target is present and correctly positioned by analyzing light reception patterns, enabling the system to service itself without external intervention or additional complex detection hardware
2Reliability
If scanner cover is closed and switch is pressed to initiate scanning, then scanning operation is activated, but operation time and work efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of scan target positioning and automatic initiation of scanning before the user completes manual operations. By detecting the presence and position of the scan target in advance and automatically triggering the scan sequence, the patent eliminates the time-consuming manual cover closure and switch pressing steps while ensuring reliable operation activation
3Productivity
If scanner operates without closing cover to improve speed, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to external light interference
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the light reception patterns from the image sensor and uses this feedback to determine scan target positioning. By analyzing the differential light reception patterns with high precision, the system can accurately detect scan targets even when the cover is open and external light is present, maintaining measurement precision while enabling high-speed operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of external light interference into a beneficial detection mechanism. By using the light source to illuminate the scan region and analyzing the light reception patterns from the image sensor, the system can reliably detect scan targets positioned on the transparent scan region even when the cover is open, turning the challenge of external light into an advantage for automated detection
4Measurement precision
If light source is continuously on to improve detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source operates periodically rather than continuously, turning on during detection phases when scan target positioning needs to be confirmed and turning off during scanning phases. This periodic operation maintains measurement precision for accurate scan target detection while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation
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, accurate, and precise scanning without the need for manual cover closure or switch pressing, preventing errors caused by external light and ensuring correct target positioning, while maintaining a simple and cost-effective structure.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor including a light source for irradiating light toward the scan region and a light receiving element array for sensing the light incident thereon through the scan region
Implementation Method 2
a light receiving element array for sensing the light incident thereon through the scan region
Data Source
AI summary
A scanner for automatically detecting a scan target includes a transparent scan region configured to support the target, an image sensor including a light source for irradiating light toward the scan region and a light receiving element array for sensing the incident light through the scan region, a drive unit configured to linearly move the sensor across the scan region, and a control unit that controls the sensor and the drive unit. The control unit controls the light source of the sensor and the drive unit such that the sensor moves to a detection position and then the array senses the incident light through the scan region with the light source turned on and off. The control unit compares output signals of the array obtained by turning on and off the light source and automatically determines, based on the comparison, whether the target is placed in the scan region.