Abstract: A method of scanning a target image and inhibiting backtrack artifacts from the scanned image comprises the steps of initiating a scan on a flat bed scanner, the flat bed scanner comprising at least a scanbar, a memory buffer and a motion control pattern comprised of a plurality of spaced elements, each element having an angled portion with respect to the motion of the scanbar; acquiring scan data comprising a motion control pattern data and an image data with said scanbar; storing the previously acquired scan data in a memory buffer; querying whether the memory buffer reaches a preselected full threshold; acquiring a last valid scan data; stopping and backtracking the scanbar when the memory buffer preselected full threshold is met; and, inhibiting backtrack artifacts by one of a first real-time position analysis or a post-processing analysis.

Abstract: The present invention provides, an improved auto-document feed scanning apparatus and method. The apparatus comprises one of a multi-function peripheral having a scanner or a stand alone scanner, having an input tray adjacent to or integral with an auto-document feeder housing. The auto-document feeder housing has at least one feed roll for indexing a target media. An auto-document feed downguide is positioned within the housing and has at least one recognizable surface opposing a scan module. The recognizable surface defines a background for the scan module.

Abstract: A closure mechanism for hinged devices having an upper member and a lower member. The closure mechanism includes a track disposed on the upper member and at least one support arm pivotally attached to the lower member. A biasing element is adapted to urge the support arm to engage the upper member and urge it to pivot to an open configuration. The arm includes a contact element that engages the track such that an upper end of the arm moves along the track as the upper member pivots to an open position. The arm includes a hook that engages a positive stop to prevent over-rotation of the arm. In other embodiments of the closure mechanism, the arm is pivotally attached to the upper member and moves against the lower member, and the biasing element extends between the arm and either the upper member or the lower member.

Abstract: A method to compensate for imperfect scanner motion in a scanning apparatus having a moveable scanner includes generating an error array by measuring errors in a scanner position at each of a plurality of spaced positions along a direction of travel of the scanner; generating an error compensation array from the error array based on a low frequency component of the error array; and using the error compensation array to adjust at least one parameter associated with the scanning apparatus during a document scanning operation.

Abstract: The present invention provides, an improved scanning apparatus and method for full-page scanning. The apparatus comprises a flat-bed scanner having a pattern disposed on a lower surface of the scanner housing. More specifically the pattern may be produced on a raised edge defining a platen aperture on a surface of the scanner housing. The pattern is recognized by the scanbar and processor so that the scanner can distinguish between a platen aperture edge and a document or image during a full-page scan. The present method comprises making a prescan to recognize and locate the platen aperture. Next, a primary scan is performed and scanned data is produced. During the primary scan, the scanbar may not scan the pattern. Alternatively, the scanbar may scan the pattern and subsequently remove the pattern from the scanned data. According to another method, the scanner may make a single scan collecting the pattern and the image.