Abstract: There is described an image forming apparatus, which make it possible to appropriately print each of a valid print object and an invalid print object. The apparatus includes: a printing section to conduct a printing operation based on the print data, so as to create the print product; and a control section to determine whether the digital signature is valid or invalid so as to control the printing operation, based on the determined result. When the plurality of print objects includes both a valid print object for which the digital signature is determined as valid and an invalid print object for which the digital signature is determined as invalid, the control section controls the printing operation, so as to enable the valid print object to be printed, based on the print data, while disable the invalid print object to be printed, based on the print data.

Abstract: A computer peripheral that operates either as a computer mouse or as a scanner. The peripheral includes navigation sensors that generate information on motion of the device and an image array that captures successive image frames of an object being scanned. In a mouse mode, the peripheral periodically transfers readings from the navigation sensors to a computing device so that the computing device can track a position of the device. In a scanner mode, in addition to obtaining navigation information from the navigation sensors, the peripheral also captures image frames as it is moved across the object. Operation of the navigation sensors and image array may be synchronized such that an association between the image data and the navigation information may be generated and maintained as image frames are transferred to the computing device, even if some of the frames are dropped in transmission between the scanner-mouse and a computer.

Abstract: A document scanner and associated feedback mechanism are disclosed. The document scanner includes a document bed including a document positioning surface, and a scanning module slidably connected to the document bed, the scanning module manually movable across the document positioning surface. The document scanner further includes a feedback mechanism arranged to receive information about a speed of movement of the scanning module, and output a feedback signal to a user of the document scanner.

Abstract: An image forming device includes a main body casing, a cover configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main body casing, a sensing unit configured to sense an opening-closing operation of the cover, a forming unit configured to form an image on a sheet, a detecting unit configured to perform a detecting operation to detect a deviation of an image forming position of the image to be formed by the forming unit, an accepting unit configured to accept a print request, and a control unit configured to control the detecting unit to perform the detecting operation in response to the print request being accepted when the sensing unit senses an opening-closing operation of the cover after execution of a previous detecting operation, and thereafter to control the forming unit to form the image in the image forming position corrected to cancel the deviation detected in the detecting operation.

Abstract: A scanner system and corresponding method, the system comprising: a scanner device (1); a target 17) and a processor (21). The scanner device (1) comprises: an emitter (13) for projecting patterned light and a sensor (12) for capturing images of the object (19). The target (17) has predetermined features visible to the sensor simultaneously with the object for enabling the processor to determine the location of the sensor with respect to the object. The generates a three-dimensional model of the object on the basis of images of the object with the patterned light projected thereon. The scanner device further comprises a light source (14) for directionally illuminating the object (19), and the sensor (12) is arranged to capture images of the illuminated object. The processor generates sets of photometric data for the object when illuminated from different directions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a scanner and more particularly pertains to a handheld portable scanner with integrated technologies which effectively combines lighting, electronics and mechanical technologies and has a small size and convenient portability, which comprises a scanner housing, a battery, scanning components and image processing components. The scanning components are composed of an optical scanning head and a scanning rod. The image processing components are composed of scan-speed testing components which are coupled with the scanning rod, a processing chip for processing of data scanned by the optical scanning head and image processing, and a scanner circuit. The present invention provides a handheld portable scanner which has a convenient portability and extensive functions.

Abstract: One embodiment pertains to a method of transferring information. The method includes receiving a request for displayed information on a first device and forming a meta-language message based on the displayed information. The method also includes transferring the meta-language message to a handheld device and converting the meta-language message to a native language message of a user of the handheld device.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for defining an image in a handheld imaging translation device are described herein. The image may be defined as a plurality of color planes having a plurality of bits, the bits of each color plane stored in consecutive memory addresses, and the color planes separated by a consistent offset, such that each bit and its associated bits are equally separated by the consistent offset.

Abstract: Disclosed is a polychromatic barcode or portable data file symbology, image, system, method, and apparatus enabling virtually unlimited information density. In a preferred embodiment, ASCII characters are assigned to unique identifiers, which identifiers are in turn assigned to unique colors. Color blots are sequentially arranged in a symbol so as to match the sequence of corresponding identifiers to be encoded, and then the symbol is applied to a surface. To decode, the symbol is scanned, colors translated into identifiers, and identifiers translated into content. Also disclosed are blots dedicated to calibration. Information density is further enhanced through an external reference function achieved through commands included in the barcode itself, by which function infinitely high information density is achieved. Licensing information is available through www.inventerprise.com.

Abstract: Expense information is obtained from receipts having various formats. Electronic image information of a receipt is processed to obtain expense information contained on the receipt. The expense information contained on the receipt can be categorized into one or more predetermined categories to obtain categorized information for the receipt. The categorized information for the receipt can be combined with categorized information of other receipts to produce reports for one or more of the predetermined categories.

Abstract: An assembly for transferring information to and/or from flexible sheet media in a highly advantageous curved configuration is disclosed. The sheet material includes a length and a width defining first and second opposing surfaces. The assembly includes support means for supporting the sheet the curved configuration across its width, having the first surface inwardly oriented with respect to the curved configuration. Thereafter, moving means moves the flexible sheet material so supported in a direction along a read/write path generally parallel to the sheet material length and transverse to the direction of curvature. A read/write arrangement is provided which is configured for reading and/or writing information across the width of the first surface of the sheet as the sheet is moved along the path in the curved configuration.

Abstract: A handheld optical scanner for capturing images of text from a rendered document is described. The scanner includes a package suitable to be held in a user's hand. The package contains an optical sensor that captures images of text from a rendered document. The package also contains a proximity sensor that determines when the optical sensor is within a predetermined distance and orientation of a rendered document. The package further contains a triggering mechanism that causes the optical sensor to capture an image of text from a rendered document when the proximity sensor determines that the optical sensor is within a predetermined distance and orientation of a rendered document.

Abstract: An image writing device is provided and includes: a case including an accommodating part that accommodates a plurality of display media stacked, a entrance and exit port which is communicated with the accommodating part and through which the display media enter and exit the case, and a window through which an image on a display surface of a display medium can be externally browsed, the image being written in the display medium by applying external stimulation; a conveying part that conveys the display medium into and out of the case through the entrance and exit port; and a writing part arranged near the entrance and exit port of the case, the writing part applying the external stimulation to the display medium to write the image in the display medium when the display medium is conveyed into or out of the case by way of the conveying part.

Abstract: A method of swipe-scanning a graphic image printed on a surface. The surface has a position-coding pattern superimposed with the graphic image. The method comprises the steps of: (i) operatively positioning a swipe scanner relative to the surface; (ii) swiping the scanner across the surface; (iii) capturing, during said swipe, successive images of portions of the graphic image; (iv) imaging, during the swipe, successive parts of the position-coding pattern; (v) determining absolute positions of the scanner using the imaged parts of the position-coding pattern; and (vi) using the absolute positions to assemble the captured portions of the graphic image into a scanned graphic image.

Abstract: A document scanning device and method of use are disclosed. The document scanning device includes a document bed and one or more document retention devices positioned along the document bed to define a document positioning surface. The document scanning device also includes a scanning module slidably attached to the document bed to pass over the document positioning surface. The document retention device retains a document in place on the document positioning surface as the scanning module slides over the document.

Abstract: A method of swipe-scanning a graphic image pre-printed on a surface. The method comprises the steps of: (i) operatively positioning a swipe scanner relative to the surface and swiping the scanner across the surface; (ii) capturing, during the swipe, successive images of portions of the graphic image; (iii) printing, during the swipe, successive parts of a position-coding pattern onto the surface, the position-coding pattern being superimposed with the graphic image; (iv) imaging, during the swipe, portions of the surface on which the printhead has printed the parts of the position-coding pattern; (v) determining absolute positions of the scanner using the imaged parts of the position-coding pattern; and (vi) using the absolute positions to assemble the captured portions of the graphic image into a scanned graphic image.

Abstract: Provided is an information processing system which has a plurality of tags, a tag reader, a digital-pen, and a server. The plurality of tags each hold a tag identifier. The tag reader reads the tag identifier held in each of the plurality of tags. The digital-pen reads location information, which identifies a location where handwriting is made on paper. The server keeps work record including information that associates the tag identifier recorded in the server in advance with the location on paper. When it is judged that the read tag identifier and a handwriting location identified by the location information are associated with each other, the server judges whether or not the read tag identifier matches the tag identifier recorded in advance that is associated by the work record with the handwriting location identified by the location information. The server outputs a result of the judging.

Abstract: Provided is a mobile phone handset which includes a front cover moulding with user interface buttons and a display. A chassis moulding houses telecommunication components in connection with the buttons and display. The chassis moulding has a cradle and a drive mechanism, as well as a print cartridge operatively received in the cradle. The cartridge has a printhead and an ink storage and distribution assembly. The handset also includes a rear cover molding defining an inlet and an outlet slot. The drive mechanism is configured to feed print media from the inlet slot to the outlet slot past the print cartridge for printing on the media.

Abstract: An optical reader with a single optical assembly that receives images from at least two different environments. For example, one environment may be constructed in a first chamber into which a document or bulk item with a bar code may be placed. The other environment may be constructed in a second chamber with an active drive mechanism that transports a document with optical readable markings to a reading location. The environments may be separated by a baffle that prevents light from leaking between the environments, and the electronics and software are constructed to read and decode information that is found in the images from both environments either sequentially or simultaneously.

Abstract: An optical text scanning device compatible with a small handheld computer such as a personal digital assistant (PDA). The scanning device allows for a clear view of the text that is scanned simultaneous to the scanning process so that the operator can continuously align the device to the text. The scanned images of the text are converted in real-time to standard byte or word characters for subsequent display on the computer's viewing screen. The operator can quickly verify the accuracy of the conversion by comparing the displayed character with the actual character of text on the surface that is being scanned. Scanned text characters are stored in standard digital text files for ease of manipulation.

Abstract: The presently described embodiments solve the problem of getting electronic calendar entries back onto the paper calendar. To do so, in one form, according to the presently described embodiments, an inkjet label printer is mounted next to the paper calendar. Each time a daily entry gets updated online, the label printer prints out a new sticky label whose size and markings correspond to the revised paper calendar entry for that day. It is then a simple process for the user to peel off the label and affix it to the correct location on the paper calendar.

Abstract: The present invention discloses improvements on an apparatus for reading a document by illuminating it with a beam of focused light, directing the reflected light to an array of optical sensors, digitalizing the resulting image and storing it for future use. It discloses several aspects of the light pipe element aimed at improving the illumination of the targeted area for the aforementioned purpose, including the shape of the light pipe ends, the use of a refracting coat on the back of the light pipe and the shaping of the light pipe front surface to focus the light rays on the target surface.

Abstract: Methods, algorithms, software, apparatuses and systems for processing image data for imaging devices having irregular scan paths (e.g., scan paths that deviate from a conventional horizontal and/or straight line). The irregular scan paths generally correspond to actual locations of a line of output from an image output device (e.g., a printer). The method generally includes steps of selecting one or more of the input pixels, correlating a location of the selected pixel with a location on an irregular scan path, and producing an adjusted pixel based on a value of the selected pixel, the location on the irregular scan path, and/or values of one or more pixels near the selected pixel. The present invention advantageously allows for processing an input image for an output device with an irregular scan path using only enough working memory for a relatively small number of pixel rows even if the irregular scan path traverses a relatively large number of rows in the output image.

Abstract: A computer peripheral that may operate as a hand-held scanner and, in some embodiments, also as a conventional computer mouse. The components incorporated in the device to support scanning may be compact and may be positioned to allow flexibility in shaping a housing of the device. As a result, the device may be ergonomically shaped to facilitate hand-held use as either a scanner or a mouse. Controls, for mouse or scanner operation, may be readily incorporated into the device. The components may also be low cost. Such a low cost, compact design may be achieved through an appropriate selection of curved reflective surfaces in optical paths through the housing. The curved reflective surface may selectively focus or spread light traveling along an optical path, reducing or eliminating the need for lenses and may enable light emitting elements and an image array to be mounted on the same printed circuit board.

Abstract: An image processing method includes the following steps. Firstly, a specified digital image and a designated text/graph are retrieved. Then, the specified digital image is processed to obtain image information associated with a right-side-up image of the specified digital image. Afterwards, the designated text/graph is automatically adjusted and attached on a specified position relative to the right-side-up image according to the image information, thereby printing the specified digital image and the designated text/graph.

Abstract: A printer, scanner device and methods for using same are described herein. A printer device may include a dedicated input that, when actuated, generates and sends a request to a computer for known data or a predetermined print job, e.g., schedule information from a personal information management (PIM) application. A scanner device may include another dedicated input that, when actuated, automatically scans a document fed to the device by the user and sends the scanned image to IM (or other) software on a computer, bypassing the need to manipulate the scanned image using scanner software. The device may be used with printed metapaper, which includes a barcode or other indicia identifying the metapaper and corresponds to a stored template image of the metapaper. When the metapaper is rescanned, the scan can be compared to the stored template information to identify changes and synchronize the changes with the IM software.

Abstract: The system contains a scanner, an apparatus for scanning receipts into a computer and a unique software program which automatically processes, organizes and saves expense information that can be viewed in various formats, namely, tabular statements, pie-charts, etc. The scanner, which accommodates paper of differing sizes, is used to input bills, receipts, bank statements, etc. The scanner is usually connected to a computer through a Universal Serial Bus or a parallel port for easy installation. The software program creates a text file of the scanned data by inclusion of sorting, categories, etc., and automatically saves the information in Quicken Interchange Format, allowing it to be imported into any financial management software for further processing. Each receipt is treated as an individual transaction. Multiple items in the receipt are used to create a “split” transaction with proper customizable categories added. Further, the software also allows for record keeping, budgeting and budget balancing.

Abstract: Provided is a print controller for a mobile telephone handset. The controller includes a printer central processor configured to control operation of an integral printing assembly of the handset. An image sensor is arranged in signal communication with the central processor and is configured for capturing images. The controller also includes a print media feed apparatus configured to feed print media through the printing assembly.

Abstract: The invention claimed is a scanner which allows for any type of media, including embossed credit cards, with a thickness in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm to be inserted into the media path and remain in constant contact with the CIS as a result of a spring loaded roller, gear, and cantilever system. The input process, called a “kick start” method, allows for momentary lowering of the roller, and return, as it spins to grasp the media and continue pulling the media through the scan path. This apparatus stores energy provided by the motor within its spring and gear system, thus requiring less energy from the motor, and reduces manufacturing costs.

Abstract: A device identifier is scanned with a portable scanner and communicated to a service provider. The service provider associates the device with the portable scanner. Information is scanned from a printed source and communicated to the service provider and subsequent information is received in response at a device identified by the device identifier. In some embodiments, a communication session identifier is scanned with a portable scanner and communicated to the service provider rather than (or in cooperation with) the device identifier.

Abstract: A printer module having an elongate cylindrical body is disclosed. The printer module includes modular connectors arranged on longitudinal ends of the body to permit at least an image processing module to be attached to the body. A communications bus associated with the modular connectors interconnects the printing module and other modules, including the image processing module to facilitate communication between the printing mechanism and the image processing module for receiving print data. A pagewidth printing mechanism positioned in the body and adjacent a media feed path prints the print data onto print media in the media feed path.

Abstract: An optical text scanning device compatible with a small handheld computer such as a personal digital assistant (PDA). The scanning device allows for a clear view of the text that is scanned simultaneous to the scanning process so that the operator can continuously align the device to the text. The scanned images of the text are converted in real-time to standard byte or word characters for subsequent display on the computer's viewing screen. The operator can quickly verify the accuracy of the conversion by comparing the displayed character with the actual character of text on the surface that is being scanned. Scanned text characters are stored in standard digital text files for ease of manipulation.

Abstract: A scanning device for scanning an interface surface is disclosed. The scanning device includes a beam generator for emitting a beam, a deflector for deflecting the beam to generate a raster scan pattern over a scanning patch, and a sensor for receiving a reflected beam from the scanning patch and sensing from the reflected beam data encoded by coded tags printed on an interface surface. The data encoded by each tag includes an identity of the interface surface and the position of the respective tag on the interface surface. The scanning device further includes a processor for determining a description of the interface surface from the sensed interface surface identity and at least one region of the interface surface from the determined description and the position of the sensed tag on the interface surface.

Abstract: A handheld mobile communications device includes a chassis; mobile communications circuitry and components mounted on the chassis; a printer apparatus mounted on the chassis, the printer apparatus having a pagewidth printhead and an ink supply module arranged on the printhead; and a print media feed mechanism mounted on the chassis to feed print media through the printer apparatus. The ink supply module is a molded multi-part structure defining a plurality of converging ink flow paths. The printer apparatus is detachable from the chassis for replacement after a predetermined amount of usage.

Abstract: A hand held mobile communication device includes a housing, a scanner disposed on one surface of the housing and a display provided on an opposed surface of the housing, whereby an image being scanned by the scanner is displayed on the display. A second housing may be provided and attached to the first housing with a hinge that enables 360 degree rotation of one housing relative to another. The device is employable for managing printed documents by scanning them with the scanner, viewing scanned documents on the display and transmitting the documents in a digital format to a remote location. A second display is also provided on an outer surface of the second housing. The device includes a camera for capturing still images and another camera for capturing video. Operating keys are employed and provide for one step operation of various features of the device.

Abstract: A mobile telephone is provided for printing a business card on a print medium. The print medium has coded data indicative of a print medium identifier and the mobile telephone has an inbuilt printer module to print the business card on the print medium such that the print medium shows at least one contact detail relevant to a business. The mobile telephone also has an interface for connection to a remote server, a sensor module to sense a print media identifier of the print medium and, a processor to generate an association between the print medium identifier and the at least one contact detail. Sensing the coded data with the sensor module to derive the print medium identifier, allows the processor to perform an action in relation to the contact detail.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a handheld device that comprises an information module for obtaining and/or receiving information pertaining to a surface adjacent to the device, and a position determination arrangement for determining at least one of a position and/or velocity of the handheld device. The position determination arrangement comprises a determination module configured to determine at least one of a relative position of the handheld device and/or a velocity of the handheld device based upon at least one of surface markings located on the surface adjacent the device and/or apparatus markings located on an input apparatus. The surface markings and the apparatus markings are configured to provide absolute position information.

Abstract: A hand-held device for scanning and subsequent printing. The hand-held device has an optical scanning head integrated at a proximal end portion of a housing of the device, and a printing head integrated at a distal end portion of the housing of the device. Displayed, printed, or written information may be read from a scannable medium by manually moving (or fixedly positioning) a proximal end of the hand-held device across (or on) the scannable medium over the information. The read information is electronically stored within the hand-held device, and the stored information may be printed onto a printable medium by manually moving (or fixedly positioning) a distal end of the hand-held device across (or onto) the printable medium.

Abstract: A mobile phone including a phone body defining front and rear faces, the front face having a keypad and display and the rear face having a removable cover, the phone body further defining a recess between the front and rear faces within which recess a supply of print media is received; a camera fitted to the body and configured to capture an image; a print media stock container adapted to fit within the recess and accessible with the cover removed; and a printer assembly fitted within the body, proximate to a base end of the body. The printer assembly includes an ink ejection printhead configured to print the captured image upon print media, and a feed means provided between the print media stock container and the base end of the body. The feed means is configured to feed print media from the stock container and past the printhead during printing.

Abstract: Information is captured from a rendered document with a handheld document data capture device. Electronic information associated with the rendered document is applied to determine the system's actions and/or behaviors in response to the data capture. In some embodiments, the electronic information is markup data or an action map associated with the rendered document. In some embodiments, an electronic counterpart corresponding to the rendered document is located, and information associated with the electronic counterpart is applied to determine actions and/or behaviors available to a user of the handheld document data capture device.

Abstract: A modular pen-like device is provided having a camera module for capturing images, an effects module for applying visual effects to the captured images, and a printer module for printing the captured and visually effected images. The modules have respective, generally cylindrical bodies configured to be assembled together so that the assembled body of the modular pen-like device is generally cylindrical.

Abstract: A manual tracking apparatus including a manually moveable wand for reading and writing media is provided comprising a wand body partially enclosing at least one wheel, an axle, and a printing member. The printing member is supported by the wand body for printing on a media surface, the printing member having a maximum print area for a predetermined position of the wand body relative to a target object substantially less than the entire area of an image to be printed. A reference ruler is provided for aligning and indexing the position of the wand body relative to the target object. A wand tracking system can be provided including the at least one wheel rigidly coupled to the axle for guiding the wand in a straight line direction.

Abstract: A cellular phone is provided with a media scanning capability. Scanner optics, an optional light source and related scanning circuitry is integrated within a cellular phone to enable image or text scanning, facsimile, text-to-speech conversion, and language translation. Position sensors provide position data as the scanner is manually moved, in one or more passes across the scanned media, to enable a bit-mapped image of the strip to be created in a data buffer. Image data from the strips is processed to remove redundant overlap data and skew position errors, to give a bit-mapped final image of the entire scanned item. Image compression is provided to compress the image into standard JPEG format for storage or transmission, or into facsimile format for transmission of the document to any fax machine. Optical character recognition (OCR) is provided to convert image data to text which may be sent as email, locally displayed, stored for later use, or further processed.

Abstract: A digital tracing method and device, comprising a flat acquisition element (3) for digitizing a document (7) and a flat display element (5) for displaying said digitized document mounted on said flat acquisition element (3).

Abstract: A handheld device that may operate as a scanner, computer mouse or as a camera. In the scanner mode, the device captures image frames as it is moved across an object. The image frames are formed into a composite image based on computations in two processes. In a first process, fast track processing determines a coarse position of each of the image frames based on a relative position between each successive image frame and a respective preceding image determine by matching overlapping portions of the image frames. In a second process, fine position adjustments are computed to reduce inconsistencies from determining positions of image frames based on relative positions to multiple prior image frames. A control mechanism, such as a button on the device can be used to switch between the scanner and mouse modes. When the device is lifted, it may switch to the camera mode.

Abstract: There is provided an image input device in which a carriage mounted with an image sensor and three types of light source is moved in a sub-scanning direction of a document by a motor and the document is read in a line sequential manner. The image input device includes a controller controlling a driving of the motor, an operation of the image sensor, and lighting and extinguishing operations of the light source; and a detecting unit outputting an edge signal to the controller when detecting a movement of the carriage corresponding to one sub-scanning line. The controller is configured to sequentially light and extinguish the three types of light source whenever receiving the edge signal from the detecting unit so as to sequentially read out electric charge stored in the image sensor during the lighting period of the respective light source; and discard the electric charge stored in the image sensor during an intervening period before receiving a subsequent edge signal.

Abstract: A camera is provided comprising an image sensor for sensing images, a printhead for printing the sensed images on print media, and a controller for controlling the communication of the sensed images to the printhead. The controller comprises an image sensor interface, a very long instruction word vector processor responsive to the image sensor interface, and a printhead interface in communication with the processor and the printhead. The processor is comprised of a number of processing units interconnected by a crossbar switch.

Abstract: A print cartridge for an inkjet printer with a media drive assembly, the cartridge comprising: a drive shaft for feeding a media substrate past a printhead, the drive shaft positioned such that it engages the media drive assembly upon installation of the cartridge; wherein during use, the drive assembly transfer torque to the drive shaft by contact friction.

Abstract: A handheld recording apparatus. A casing includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite thereto. The second sidewall includes a recording through hole. A transparent positioning window is disposed in the first sidewall and corresponds to the recording through hole. A recording mechanism is movably disposed in the casing and records information via the recording through hole. A drive mechanism is disposed in the casing and is connected to the recording mechanism, moving the recording mechanism.

Abstract: A document reading unit has an image sensor mounted in a box-like support base so that a document can be read by the image sensor through an opening in the support base. A contact glass disposed in the opening covers the image sensor and supports the document while it is being read by the image sensor. Support members coupled to the contact glass are detachably fixed to the support base by fixing screws. The image sensor has two rows of spaced-apart line sensors with the line sensors in one row staggered relative to those in the other row, and the support members are arranged between adjacent pairs of line sensors in each row of line sensors. The contact glass and support members are removable as a unit from the support base.