Facsimile Transparency Image Scanning Patents (Class 358/487)
  • Publication number: 20070291330
    Abstract: A thin transparent media adapter is used when scanning transparent media on a contact image sensor or reduction optics scanner. The adapter uses illumination from a light guide assembly to illuminate a diffuser and the media. A lens assembly is used to focus the light from the media to create an intermediate image between the adapter and the scanner platen glass. The adapter is an optical assembly that forms an intermediate image of the transparent media in the object side focal plane of existing scanner optics. The existing scanner optics can then capture and focus the light from the intermediate image onto the scanner's existing sensor array. The adapter magnetically couples to the scan system to allow the lens array to follow movement of the optical system of the scanner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: Kurt Eugene Spears
  • Patent number: 7310172
    Abstract: A transparency adapter includes a frame configured to removably receive and support a transparent media to be scanned, and a housing cooperating with the frame to position the frame at a comfortable viewing angle. A method of scanning an image residing on transparent media and a system for improving the scanning of transparencies on the platen of a reflective scanner are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Jacklyn M. Dowdy, Modest Khovaylo, Philipp Refior, Tony Aguilar
  • Patent number: 7307765
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus can read images on film and is capable of alternating between 35 mm film and a roll of film. The apparatus includes a light source, a photoelectric converter, a film transport that transports film past a reading position to which the light is emitted and the photoelectric converter reads, and two insertion openings. The light source illuminates the film so that the photoelectric converter can read the illuminated images and output an image signal. The film transport transports the film to the reading position. A first insertion opening is used for inserting a roll of film (e.g., in a cartridge), while a second insertion opening is used for inserting 35 mm film (e.g., on a film mount).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Fujinawa, Takuya Shirahata
  • Patent number: 7298529
    Abstract: A scanner system for imaging a transparent media object comprising an illumination source for concurrently illuminating a first and second scan line of a media object, and a carriage comprising a photosensitive device located within the carriage and a light pipe affixed to a surface of the carriage is provided. The carriage is configured to receive on a first region of the photosensitive device light passed through the first scan line and the light pipe is adapted to redirect light passing through the second scan line onto a second region of the photosensitive device. The photosensitive device is operable to sample light directed onto the first and second regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: William R. Haas, Kirk S. Tecu
  • Patent number: 7295350
    Abstract: A photographic film scanning device includes an image scanner including a first casing having a transparent top surface and an optical scanning module movably arranged inside the first casing. A film driving assembly includes a second casing having a detachable bottom removably positioned on the top surface of the first casing. A light-transmitting window is defined in the bottom, having a length and a width. A film driving mechanism is arranged inside the second casing, including a film container for containing a length of film and a film spool for windingly receiving the film roll, respectively arranged on opposite longitudinal ends of the window. A motor drives a toothed wheel engaging perforations defined in the film for moving the film across the length of the window. A light source projects light through the film and the window toward the optical scanning module for performing scanning operation of the film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Transpacific IP Ltd
    Inventors: Hsiu-O Hsu, Jen-Shou Tseng, Jeng-Kwei Chen
  • Patent number: 7286270
    Abstract: In an optical-reading document board, an anti-reflection layer is formed by a transparent film and an anti-reflection film is bonded on a document-resting surface of a transparent glass plate. The anti-reflection layer is structured by a transparent film and an anti-reflection film bonded on one surface of the transparent film. The use of such an anti-reflection film greatly improves reflectivity to provide an averaged reflectivity of approximately 3% in the entirety. As a result, the transmissivity of light is 94% or greater. In connection with this, the conventional layer has a reflectivity of approximately 8%, and a transmissivity thereof is around 90%. This makes it possible to effectively utilize more of the light from the light source and thus greatly improve contrast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Oshima, Hideaki Tomotsu
  • Patent number: 7286271
    Abstract: A scanning chassis is suited for scanning a document. The scanning chassis includes a case, a light source, at least one reflector, a lens assembly and an optical sensor. The case has a light transparent slot shaped like a bar form, wherein the widths corresponding to the points along the longitudinal direction of the light transparent slot are not all the same. The light source can illuminate the document and an image can be generated at the place where the document is illuminated by the light source. The image can be projected on the reflector through the light transparent slot. The image can be projected on the lens assembly by the reflector's reflecting the image. The image can be projected on the optical sensor after the image passes through the lens assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Transpacific IP, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yin-Chun Huang, Chien-Liang Yeh
  • Publication number: 20070188830
    Abstract: A computer program product executed by a computer connected with a document imager that uses an imaging section to image an original document mounted on a document bed plate on which the original document is mounted and which has a specific pattern formed on a surface thereof and outputs an image of the original document allows a CPU to execute a judging step of judging stillness of the original document mounted on the document bed plate from at least one of a discontinuity of the pattern at an outer peripheral portion in a document bed plate image obtained by the imaging section and a change in the document bed plate image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Applicant: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masatoshi Watanuki
  • Patent number: 7242503
    Abstract: In the image reading method, a film having images recorded in a plurality of frames in a longitudinal direction is transported to read the images photoelectrically at an image reading position by an image reading device. This method transports the film in a first direction along a read and transport path including the image reading position to perform a first image reading for reading the images by the image reading device, returns a forward end of the film to the read and transport path on an entry or exit side of the read and transport path after the first image reading has been finished, and transports the film along the read and transport path in the first direction or in a second direction opposite to the first direction to perform a second image reading in which the images are read by the image reading device at the image reading position in a sequence of frames that was applied to the first image reading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: FujiFilm Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroyasu Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7224483
    Abstract: In a method of controlling an image reading apparatus, which has an illumination unit adapted to irradiate an object with first and second light rays in different frequency ranges, and a light-receiving unit adapted to receive light coming from the object, and to output a signal, and reads an image of the object by moving the illumination unit and light-receiving unit relative to the object, the light-receiving unit outputs a first signal in response to irradiation with the first light ray, and outputs a second signal in response to irradiation with the second light ray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Mitsugu Hanabusa, Tsutomu Takayama
  • Patent number: 7206103
    Abstract: After prescan of a plurality of images on a photographic film, designation of an image to be processed and verification of the image to be processed, the photographic film is conveyed at high speed to a position where the reading conditions for the image to be processed can be set. When reading the image to be processed, the photographic film is conveyed at the same conveying speed as at the time of fine scan, and from the time point when the reading is complete, the high speed conveying of the photographic film is resumed and the photographic film is delivered. In a case where adjacent images are designated as the images to be processed, an operation similar to the one described above is performed until completion of reading the images to be processed, and then, the images to be processed are fine scanned after returning the photographic film to a position where the reading conditions for the images to be processed can be set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: FujiFilm Corporation
    Inventor: Yasunobu Sakaguchi
  • Patent number: 7202982
    Abstract: A method for remotely selecting and ordering photographic prints, includes the steps of: sending a photographic film bearing a plurality of latent images to a photofinisher; developing the photographic film to produce visible images and scanning the visible images to create a digital image file at the photo finisher; producing an index print having a plurality of images from the photographic film along with an index number associated with each image and an order number; sending the index print to a customer; selecting images for which prints are desired from the index print; ordering photographic prints via telephone from the customer's home to the photofinisher, specifying the order number and the index numbers associated with the images for which prints are desired; and making photographic prints of the selected images at the photofinisher and sending the photographic prints to the customer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: John Randall Fredlund, David Lynn Patton, Roger R. A. Morton, Steven Bruce Paciocco
  • Patent number: 7199909
    Abstract: A stand alone flat bed scanner including a CPU, a removable storage medium, a control system displaying digital image and controls for controlling the mode of operation, degree of resolution, related parameters associated with generating, storing and displaying digital data. Ports for printers, accessories and other peripherals, an internal hard drive, and software adapted to display images directly on a television screen, and/or to display images projected from an LCD projector upon a screen, including battery, and a pivotal handle for portable use in environments not having an external power supply. One embodiment, not including an incorporated flat bed scanner function, adapted to receive image data from a conventional scanner unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Microtek International, Inc.
    Inventors: Loi Han, Wen Shu “Bonnie” Chen, Yu-Cheng Sheng
  • Patent number: 7190493
    Abstract: A white reference image is inputted to an image sensor so as to output groups of analog data. The groups of analog data are converted by a processing unit into those groups of digital data the number of which is smaller than that of photosensor elements of the image sensor. The lowest density value of the groups or digital data is inspected, an operating environment is set so that the lowest density value of the groups of digital data may become a density value within a predetermined range. An optical system, a drive unit and the processing unit are controlled under the operating environment so as to output from the processing unit, image data which express a subject image inputted to the image sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Yoichiro Maki, Noriyuki Noda, Takeshi Aoki
  • Patent number: 7177056
    Abstract: A sensor frame for an image sensor is manufactured in the step of forming a sensor frame for an image sensor by extrusion molding so that a frame support portion for supporting the frame is formed above a lens array holding portion, and the step of removing the thus-formed sensor frame support portion by machining while leaving parts of the support portion located at the longitudinally corresponding to the upper ends of the lens array holding portion. Accordingly, machined surfaces subjected to the machining exist outside the hollow space where the sensor ICs are located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toshio Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7177050
    Abstract: A film scanner, such as a telecine, includes a light source, collection optics and one or more light sensors to reduce image signals representative of an image on film. In addition, a reflector arrangement is provided which has an internally reflective cavity, such as an integrating sphere, to captor light which may have been scattered from the usual light path and provided to an additional sensor. Compensations can thus be made for light scattered in any direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Cintel International Limited
    Inventor: Terance William Mead
  • Patent number: 7170656
    Abstract: An automatic slide feeder according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise a housing configured to define an input slide tray, an output slide tray and a scan slide tray. A slide actuator operatively associated with the housing moves a slide from the input slide tray to the scan slide tray. A control system operatively associated with the slide actuator and a document scanner operates the document scanner to scan a slide positioned in the scan slide tray and operates the slide actuator to move a new slide from the input slide tray to the scan slide tray after the slide positioned in the scan slide tray has been scanned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Lisa M. Geer
  • Patent number: 7167285
    Abstract: A scheme for obtaining an original image free from any dust or scratches on a film by scanning a film original or the like with visible light and infrared light has been proposed. This scheme suffers problems, i.e., a large memory size and long processing time since original image data obtained by infrared light must be stored. To solve such conventional problems, this invention provides, e.g., an image scanning apparatus which has a light source for emitting visible light and invisible light, a scanning device configured to scan an original image irradiated with light emitted by the light source, and a control device configured to control the scanning device to scan the original image irradiated with the invisible light, and then to scan the original image irradiated with the visible light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masatoshi Nagano
  • Patent number: 7167280
    Abstract: A method of transferring an image recorded on a photographic film to a digital signal, using a film scanning device that generates scan data representative of the digital signal, comprises the steps of calibrating the film scanning device in relation to printing densities and scanning the photographic film with the film scanning device to produce scan data that represents printing densities. Inasmuch as the digital signal is used to drive a film recorder that exposes an output film that is subsequently printed onto a target print material, the scan data represents printing densities which when written out to the film recorder will produce printing densities of the output film onto the target print material that are identical to the printing densities of the same photographic film optically transferred onto the target print material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Mitchell J. Bogdanowicz, Christian Lurin, Kyle J. Alvut
  • Patent number: 7164511
    Abstract: A system and method for scanning a photographic film using a scanner automatedly identifies the film as either a positive or negative and controls the scanner settings to perform the scan accordingly. The method includes performing a pre-scan of the film, sampling a color density of at least one location of the film, comparing the color density to a standard range indicating an orange bias for the at least one location, and setting the scanner to treat the film as a negative if the color density is within the standard range and to otherwise treat the film as a positive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Gordon D. Ford, Leland A. Lester, David C. Iglehart
  • Patent number: 7164508
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus having an illuminating device for illuminating a film original, an image reading device for reading an image on the film original illuminated by the illuminating device and outputting image signals. The image reading apparatus further includes a type discriminating device for discriminating whether the film original is a first film original or a second film original having different film sizes, and a reading scope modifying device for modifying the reading scope of the image reading means according to the result of discrimination of the type discriminating means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Fujinawa, Takuya Shirahata
  • Patent number: 7164507
    Abstract: An imaging system, which may be applied both to black and white and color imaging systems and comprising a platen member which defines an imaging portion and a calibration portion is disclosed. The imaging portion and the calibration portion comprise separate portions of the platen member. The platen member is supported by a movably mounted support member, and moves with the support member between a platen member calibrating position and a platen member imaging position. The platen member is dimensioned to support a sheet to be imaged. An imaging module with an imaging zone is supported in a position where the imaging zone is positioned to coincide with a portion of a sheet supported on the imaging portion of the platen member, when the platen member is in the platen member imaging position. A calibration member having a reference reflectivity is adhered to the calibration portion of the platen member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Beck, Gerald R. Curry, Donald J. Lyon
  • Patent number: 7164510
    Abstract: A scheme for obtaining an original image free from any dust or scratches on a film by scanning a film original or the like with visible light and infrared light has been proposed. This scheme suffers problems, i.e., a large memory size and long processing time since original image data obtained by infrared light must be stored. To solve such conventional problems, this invention provides, e.g., an image scanning apparatus which has a light source for emitting visible light and invisible light, scanning means for scanning an original image irradiated with light emitted by the light source, and control means for controlling the scanning means to scan the original image irradiated with the invisible light, and then to scan the original image irradiated with the visible light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masatoshi Nagano
  • Patent number: 7161717
    Abstract: The present invention provides a self-propelled image read module, which comprises a sensor, a guide rod, a motor, a gear set, and a belt. The guide rod is fixed on a base of a scanner. The sensor is slidably matched on the guide rod. The motor is disposed at one side of the sensor. The gear set is connected to the motor. The belt is fixed on the base. The belt passes through between and contacts a transmission wheel and an idle wheel of the gear set. Thereby, a scanner's image read module of simple assembly, low cost, and small size is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Teco Image Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Pen-Jung Lee
  • Patent number: 7153046
    Abstract: In a print order receiving system, a first output receiving server receives an order of a print output at every captured image data obtained by imaging apparatus; an image storing server stores the captured image data; and a first print out apparatus prints out an initial printed matter, and the first print out apparatus supplies the initial printed matter to a shipping terminal. An order receiving server receives a reorder of the printed matter from a user terminal; a charging and settlement server performs the charging and settlement of the printed matter; and the first print out apparatus prints the image data to generate later printed matter when a reorder is received, and the first print out apparatus supplies the later printed matter to the shipping terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Koji Ashizaki
  • Patent number: 7149012
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide an image scanner, for scanning a reflection document or a transmission document. The image scanner comprises a shell, a document window glass, a transmission document carrier, and an optical chassis. The shell has a groove on its upper surface. The document window glass is capable of connecting with the groove, for scanning the reflection document. The transmission document carrier is capable of connecting with the groove, for scanning the transmission document. The optical chassis is provided at a proper location, for retrieving the images of the reflection document and the transmission document and converting them to an electronic signal. Wherein, by placing the document window glass or transmission document carrier into the groove, the image scanner is capable of scanning the reflection document or transmission document, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventors: Po-Hua Fang, Yin-Chun Huang
  • Patent number: 7149010
    Abstract: A template for a scanner system comprising a template body and an element for generating an optical pattern when scanned by the scanner system is provided. A method of scanning an image on a transparent media comprising executing a reflective scan by the scanner system over a predefined carriage translation distance, comparing data imaged during the reflective scan with a reference pattern and determining subsequent scan procedures based upon the results of the comparison is provided. A scanner system comprising a reflective scanner, a transparent media adapter operable to backlight a transparent media and a template comprising an element for generating an optical pattern when scanned by the reflective scanner is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Kirk Steven Tecu, William Robert Haas, David William Boll
  • Patent number: 7136837
    Abstract: A method of selecting images from a plurality of images previously transferred from a user and stored by a service provider, and ordering services to be provided utilizing the images, including establishing an account for the user with the service provider to permit the user to have access to ordered services; receiving a plurality of images from the user and storing the plurality of images in an electronic database provided by the service provider; displaying image designators for at least a subset of the images for viewing by the user; the user selecting a service to be provided using at least one selected image from the plurality of images stored in the electronic database, providing a price and a lower discounted price for the selected service; and using the discounted price if the user deletes at least one of the plurality of images from the electronic database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: William M. Jackson, Kenneth A. Parulski
  • Patent number: 7130088
    Abstract: A combination platen and sheet fed scanner has a retractable lamp which comprises a sheet fed scanning unit (1). A sheet feeding mechanism is in the sheet fed scanning unit (1). A first camera images a first side of a document fed through the sheet feeding mechanism. A second camera images a side of the document. A platen (2) is detachably mounted to the sheet fed scanning unit (1). A mechanism moves the second camera from the sheet fed scanning unit (1) to the platen (2). A lamp is associated with the second camera, the lamp is retractably mounted to the second camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Kodak Company
    Inventors: Robert S. Breslawski, Robert M. Westcott, Stephen A. Horstman, Charles E. Brugger
  • Patent number: 7121746
    Abstract: In a print order receiving system, a first output receiving server receives an order of a print output at every captured image data obtained by imaging apparatus; an image storing server stores the captured image data; and a first print out apparatus prints out an initial printed matter, and the first print out apparatus supplies the initial printed matter to a shipping terminal. An order receiving server receives a reorder of the printed matter from a user terminal; a charging and settlement server performs the charging and settlement of the printed matter; and the first print out apparatus prints the image data to generate later printed matter when a reorder is received, and the first print out apparatus supplies the later printed matter to the shipping terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Koji Ashizaki
  • Patent number: 7119933
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes a movable image-capturing printed circuit board including an image device, and a controlling printed circuit board which is fixed to the image reading apparatus and which controls the driving of the image device. Both printed circuit boards include connectors. When electric connection is established between the connectors, signal transmission and reception is performed. The connectors are connected only in a predetermined position. This can eliminate the need for using cable wires. Thus, a simplified structure can reduce emission generated by using cable wires to transmit a driving signal for the image device and a read image signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Satoshi Sugimoto
  • Patent number: 7119934
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus of a contact image sensor type includes an area light source. The image reading apparatus is used for reading a light transmitting original placed on an original base by irradiating light thereto from the area light source and receiving transmission light. The original base has an uneven portion on a front surface on the side on which the light transmitting original is placed so that the adhesion of the light transmitting original to the original base is prevented upon placing the light transmitting original on the original base. The uneven portion does not effect optical characteristics for reading the light transmitting original.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Nippon Sheet Glass Company, Limited
    Inventors: Minoru Yoshida, Yoshiyuki Uemura
  • Patent number: 7116450
    Abstract: A method for remotely selecting and ordering photographic prints, includes the steps of: sending a photographic film bearing a plurality of latent images to a photofinisher; developing the photographic film to produce visible images and scanning the visible images to create a digital image file at the photo finisher; producing an index print having a plurality of images from the photographic film along with an index number associated with each image and an order number; sending the index print to a customer; selecting images for which prints are desired from the index print; ordering photographic prints via telephone from the customer's home to the photofinisher, specifying the order number and the index numbers associated with the images for which prints are desired; and making photographic prints of the selected images at the photofinisher and sending the photographic prints to the customer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: John Randall Fredlund, David Lynn Patton, Roger R. A. Morton, Steven Bruce Paciocco
  • Patent number: 7110150
    Abstract: A template for a scanning system that comprises a template body and an actuation device for actuating a switch is provided. A transparent media adapter for a scanning system comprising a switch actuatable by an actuation device and an adapter housing having a signal transmission mechanism therein is provided. A scanner system comprising a template having an actuation device, a reflective scanner and a transparent media adapter comprising a switch actuatable by the actuation device and operable to transmit a signal upon actuation thereof to a computer is provided. A method of scanning an image on a transparent media comprising actuating a switch on a transparent media adapter, transmitting a signal to a computer upon actuation of the switch and directing the scanning system to execute a scan routine upon reception of the signal is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Kirk Steven Tecu, William Robert Haas, David William Boll
  • Patent number: 7110151
    Abstract: A remote ordering system for receiving an order for goods and/or services over a communication network, the system including an electronic storage device for storing digital images, and a computer for accessing said digital images on said storage device and for communicating with a remote customer over said communication network. The computer can receive orders for goods and/or services with respect to the stored digital images. The digital images stored on said storage device having associated identification information that is used by said customer in placing the orders and an output device for producing said goods and/or services set forth in said order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: John Randall Fredlund, David Lynn Patton, Roger R. A. Morton, Steven Bruce Paciocco
  • Patent number: 7106480
    Abstract: The film scanner of the present invention basically comprises an image capture module, a media holder, and a screw drive. The image capture module comprises a pressure guide, a reflector, a lens, and an image sensor. A pressure guide with a window through which an image of the media is captured by the image sensor, and the reflector, lens, and the image sensor are all mounted in the same housing to remain in a fixed position relative to each other. In order to maintain good contact between the media holder and the pressure guide, an arm tension scheme is utilized. Since a force pushes the pressure guide down onto the media holder, the resultant scanned image is of high quality. In one embodiment, the media holder is a removable magazine allowing for a wide variety of media to be scanned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Pacific Image Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Pin-Jui Huang
  • Patent number: 7099053
    Abstract: Based on the difference in shape between a mount and a dummy mount subjected to scanning, an output signal having a pattern which differs depending on whether the mount or the dummy mount is transported is outputted from a photo coupler 54 along with driving of a mount pusher pawl 23. Further, a detection signal indicative of whether the mount or the dummy mount is transported or neither the mount nor the dummy mount is transported following the driving of the mount pusher pawl 23 is outputted from a photo coupler 59. With the use of these two output signals, whether the mount is transported or not, whether the dummy mount is transported or not or whether neither the mount nor the mount is transported or not can be detected by the driving of the mount pusher pawl with high accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Hamano
  • Patent number: 7099055
    Abstract: The invention realtes to a film scanner comprising a frame sensor (4) for picking up film frames, and a scanning device (13) at least for scanning a sprocket hole associated with a film frame. To determine the position of a sprocket hole, the film scanner comprises an evaluation device (25) which is provided to determine, in given areas, edge positions in a measuring frame supplied by the scanning device (13), form lines from the determined edge positions and determine the deviation of the center of the sprocket hole from a reference center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Thomson Licensing
    Inventors: Dieter Fischer, Guido Kohlmeyer, Thomas Leonard
  • Patent number: 7095532
    Abstract: A scanning apparatus includes a housing with a flatbed. A loading glass is installed at the scan flatbed for loading a to-be-scanned document. A photoelectric sensing device is disposed in the housing for sensing the light signals corresponding to the to-be-scanned document to generate electric signals. The electric signals are transmitted through a flat cable to a motherboard. When the photoelectric sensing device shifts and the flat cable touches the bottom of the housing, the first adsorptive slice of the flat cable and the second adsorptive slice on the bottom of the housing adsorb each other. Therefore, the rubbing between the flat cable and the loading glass can be avoided and the quality of the scanning images can be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Yu-Shan Chang
  • Patent number: 7092131
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved transparency scanning module, which is applied on a cover of scanning device. The transparency scanning module and the cover can be taken apart for different consuming groups. The features of the invention are that transparency scanning module is embedded in cover, and a slot of cover for holding transparency scanning module is set plural fillisters, and there are plural connectors set on the relative positions of transparency scanning module for connecting each other. When the fillisters connecting with the connectors, transparency scanning module is able to offer light and also transparency scanning module and cover are combined and fixed each other closely; on the other hand, rim of transparency scanning module is thinner, and most central part is protruding in z direction, thus transparency scanning module can be inserted and held in the slot of cover. This is another design for closely combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Po-Hua Fang
  • Patent number: 7088476
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes an original carriage for carrying an original; a reading element for reading an original image with relative movement therebetween, the reading element having a configuration elongated in a direction crossing with a direction of the movement; a supporting member for supporting the image reading unit; moving means for driving the supporting member to impart the relative movement; a first positioning portion for determining a position, in the longitudinal direction, of the reading element relative to the supporting member; and a second positioning portion for determining a position of the reading element in the moving direction, the second positioning portion supporting the reading element while permitting movement thereof in the longitudinal direction relative to the supporting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masahiko Yokota, Haruo Ishizuka
  • Patent number: 7088477
    Abstract: This invention has an object of reading a high-quality image by detecting and correcting dust or scratches present on a transparent original in an image reading apparatus for reading, e.g., a transparent original. To achieve this object, an original illumination unit in the image reading apparatus for reading an original includes at least a first light source for emitting light in a visible region, a second light source for emitting light in a n invisible region, and a light guide plate which has these light sources arranged at end faces and has first and second light guide patterns for guiding light beams from the first and second light sources to the entire light-emitting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masato Koshimizu, Tsutomu Takayama, Mitsugu Hanabusa, Kengo Kinumura
  • Patent number: 7075686
    Abstract: Support structure is disclosed for an image processing apparatus having a carriage that is scanned in order to read or print a document. Support brackets for attaching tension members, such as wire ropes, to each side of the carriage are formed by bending a flat plate to create an attachment plate portion of a bracket that is mounted on the carriage, a vibration absorbing arm, and a clamping extension. A wire rope is clamped to each clamping extension so that the carriage may be moved by the wire ropes. The width, length and thickness of the support brackets are selected to reduce vibrations, according to the speed and characteristics of the carriage, and at least the length dimension of the bracket may be readily adjusted. Also, vibration dampers may be used between the attachment plate portion of the bracket and the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventor: Eiichi Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7072082
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes an original resting glass sheet for resting allowing an original thereon, a support device for supporting an end portion of the original resting glass sheet, and a movable image reading unit for reading image information of the original, wherein the support device is provided with a cutout for preventing the support device from coming into contact with the image reading unit when the image reading unit moves outwardly beyond the end portion of the original resting glass sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masahiko Yokota
  • Patent number: 7064871
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes a line CCD which reads an original image placed on a glass original table which is illuminated by a light source, and an analog signal processor circuit which adjusts the signal level of the resulting signals, and a unit which sets numeric data which depends on the transmittancy of the glass original table. The analog signal processor circuit controls the amount of adjusting the signal level based on the set numeric data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shigeo Yamagata, Kenji Hiromatsu
  • Patent number: 7057777
    Abstract: An optical image scanning device includes a casing having a document supporting plate and a top cover. The top cover has an underside surface coated with a fluorescent material thereon. An optic module includes a light source for projecting an exciting light onto the fluorescent layer whereby the fluorescent material is excited by the exciting light to emit a scanning light. The scanning light transmits through a light-transmittable document and projects an image of the document onto reflective mirrors for guiding the scanning light through a focusing lens. The focusing lens focuses the light onto a image sensing device. A reflective type light source is selectively arranged in the optic module for selectively projecting a light onto a document formed on a non-transmissive medium that is positioned on the document supporting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventors: Po-Hua Fang, Hsiu-O Hsu
  • Patent number: 7034965
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an operating procedure of a scanning system that can get images automatically is disclosed. The operating procedure comprises steps of scanning at least one original to get an image which can display all content of this original, displaying the image, receiving a portion of image that selected by the user, and outputting the selected image. The present invention can also extend to a scanning method for using a scanning system with one-scan-and-done feature and free of identifying original's attribute feature. And a scanning system with one-scan-and-done feature and free of identifying original's attribute feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Stone Cheng
  • Patent number: 7034967
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus for imaging an original document or photographic film includes an original placement bed on which to place the original, and a reading device to form an image of the original. A transparent original adapter, detachably connected to the image reading apparatus, includes a delivery device that moves the original along an original placement plane of the original placement bed. The transparent original adapter also includes a lighting device that illuminates the original as the reading device forms the image of the original. A film position adjustment device adjusts the original away from the original placement plane when the original is moved, and against the original when the image of the original is read by the reading device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Masahito Ochi, Hidehayu Tsukagoshi, Takuya Shirahata
  • Patent number: 7031605
    Abstract: A negative film setter has film holders for having set therein films to be fed. Each of the film holders has both a detecting sensor for detecting whether a film is set therein and a lamp which is lit when a film is set in a film holder and which is not lit when a film is not set therein. Therefore, a user can determine at a glance whether or not films are set in the film holders, thus allowing the user to skillfully set a plurality of films at film setting sections. Accordingly, due to detection by the detecting sensor, the negative film setter can recognize in which film holder a film is set, and films can be fed in a sequential order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Konagaya, Tsuyoshi Tanabe
  • Patent number: 7031029
    Abstract: By performing preliminary scanning, a document identification unit determines whether a document is a dark document, such as a negative film, that requires excess exposure, or an ordinary document that does not require excess exposure. When it is determined that the document does not require excess exposure, an exposure time setting unit sets an exposure time for a line sensor. Then, in consonance with the designated exposure time, the line sensor initiates the reading of a black reference. Thereafter, in accordance with an excess exposure time that is designated, a black reference data preparation unit prepares black reference data. Since the black reference is read during the same period as the excess exposure time and the black reference data is prepared, the detailed tones of the dark portion of the document can be expressed, and the quality of the image can be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Yukio Okamura