Abstract: A mechanical, electrical and optical scanning apparatus for producing a digital image of a two-dimensional original object that can be either opaque or transparent. A platform supports a camera with precision zoom/focus control for receiving light energy from the object, and the light is converted into electrical energy in a digital format. Opaque objects are supported separately from transparent objects on a carriage, and a light source is supported pivotly for illuminating these objects during scanning in a different manner.

Abstract: A mechanical, electrical and optical scanning apparatus for producing a digital image of a two-dimensional original object in which the combined motions of multiple platforms or carriages along one dimension of the two-dimensional original object provides both low resolution scan of the original object and high resolution scan of the original object as well as intermediate resolutions. One of the platforms carries a camera with precision zoom/focus control for receiving light energy from said original object along the other of its dimensions converting it into electrical energy in a digital format. This platform provides low resolution scanning. The other platform carries the original object and provides high resolution scanning but moves only a fraction of the length of the original object. Combined motion of the two platforms provides high resolution scanning along the entire length of the two-dimensional original object.