Transparent Receipt Holder Edge Detection for Image Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading apparatuses struggle to efficiently cut out individual images of documents, particularly receipts, when using a transparent document folder, as they mistakenly cut based on the folder's edges rather than the document edges.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus with a transparent member and a processor that detects document edges within a holding member, allowing individual document images to be extracted by placing documents on a transparent portion in contact with a placement surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a transparent document folder holding multiple documents is used for reading, then the time and effort for document placement is reduced, but the image reading apparatus cannot correctly cut out individual document images because it detects the folder's edge instead of the document edges
Solution Approach 1:
The processor segments the read image by detecting multiple edges: the outer edge of the transparent holding member and the inner edges of individual documents. It then divides the image into a holding member area and multiple document areas based on these detected edges, enabling separate extraction of each document image.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent holding member serves as an intermediary that allows documents to be held together for simultaneous reading while its transparent nature permits the reading unit to detect document edges through it. The processor uses the holding member's edge as a reference to identify the area containing documents and then detects document edges within that area.
2Ease of manufacture
If typical edge detection processing is applied to an image containing documents in a transparent folder, then the processing follows standard procedures, but the output is a single image cut by the folder's edge rather than individual document images
Solution Approach 1:
The processor segments the read image by detecting multiple edges: the outer edge of the transparent holding member and the inner edges of individual documents. It then divides the image into a holding member area and multiple document areas based on these detected edges, enabling separate extraction of each document image.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor transitions from simple edge detection to hierarchical area division. It first detects the holding member edge to define the document-containing area, then detects document edges within that area, creating a multi-level spatial structure that enables individual document extraction from the collective image.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus includes a transparent member having a placement surface on which a document is to be placed, a reading unit configured to read an image of the document placed on the transparent member via the transparent member, and a reading mode in which an image of a document, placed in a holding member with a transparent portion, is read. The document to be read is placed in the holding member so as to be visible via the transparent portion and the holding member is placed on the placement surface with the transparent portion of the holding member in contact with the placement surface. A processor detects an edge in an image acquired by the reading unit in the reading mode, and to extract an image surrounded by an edge detected in an area surrounded by an edge corresponding to the holding member in the reading mode.