`
`(19) Japan Patent Office (JP)
` (12) Publication of Unexamined Patent Application (A)
`(11) Patent Application Publication Number H05-344283
`(43) Publication Date: December 24, 1993
` (51) Int.Cl.5 Identifying Notation Intra-Office Adjustment No. F1 Technical Details
` H 04 N 1/04 Z 7251-5C
` G 06 F 15/64 450 E 9073-5L
` H 04 N 1/21 9070-5C
`
`
`Request for Examination: not requested Number of Claims: 4
`(Total of 18 pages in original Japanese-language document)
`
`
`(21) Application Number H04-152190
`(22) Application Date: June 11, 1992
`
`(72) Inventor: Yuji Takahashi
` Ricoh Corp.
` 1-3-6 Naka-Magome Ohta-ku, Tokyo
`
`(71) Applicant: 000006747
` Ricoh Corp.
` 1-3-6 Naka-Magome Ohta-ku, Tokyo
`
`(74) Patent Agent Kenjiro Takeru Patent Attorney (and two other persons)
`(54) [Title of Invention] Image Reading Device
`
`(57) [Abstract]
`[Purpose] To upgrade the throughput when reading the image of an original according to a
`command from a host computer and transferring the image data to the host computer.
`
`[Configuration] Control unit 11 is operated as follows. When an original read is terminated, the
`read original is ejected; when the next original is in place, that original is fed; when read end
`signal EMPTY is received from memory unit 12, the next original is read and transfer processing
`is carried out. Interface unit 14 does not output a read command for each original to control unit
`11.
`
`[Figure 1]
`
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`Canon Exhibit 1211
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`Canon E><hibit1211
`Page 2
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`Canon Exhibit 1211
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`
`[Claim]
`[Claim 1]
`An image reading device comprising:
`an automatic original conveying device for conveying an original to an image reading device one
`by one;
`a reader means for reading the original conveyed by the automatic original conveying device;
`a storage means for storing image data read by the reader means;
`a control means for controlling the automatic original conveying device and the reader means
`and for storing the image data in the storage means;
`an interface for controlling read of the control means and the storage means according to a
`command from the host,
`wherein the storage means outputs EMPTY signals to the control means if the image data read by
`the interface is completed and the control means starts read operations for the next original by the
`reader means using the EMPTY signals as a trigger.
`[Claim 2]
`The image reading device according to Claim 1, wherein the control means completes the read
`operations of the reader means based on the number of sheets of the original read from the
`interface.
`[Claim 3]
`The image reading device according to Claim 1, wherein the storage means outputs EMPTY
`signals when the unused capacity is greater than the quantity of image data in the next original.
`[Claim 4]
`An image reading device comprising:
`an automatic original conveying device for conveying sheets of an original to an image read
`position one by one;
`a first and a second reader means for reading each of the first face and the second face of the
`original conveyed by the automatic original conveying device;
`a first and a second storage means for storing each image data read by the first and the second
`reader means;
`a control means for controlling the automatic original conveying device, the first and the second
`reader means and to store the image data in the first and the second storage means;
`an interface for controlling read of the control means and the storage means according to an
`instruction from the host,
`wherein the first and the second storage means output EMPTY signals to the control means when
`image data read by the interface is completed and the control means switches selectively the read
`paths for the first and the second storage means using the EMPTY signals as a trigger.
`
`[Detailed Description of Invention]
`[0001]
`[Field of Industrial Applicability]
`The present invention relates to an image reading device for reading an original image according
`to a command from a host computer and transferring image data to a host computer
`
`[0002]
`[Prior Art]
`
` 
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`Image reading devices for reading the image of an original according to a command from a host
`computer and transferring the image data to a host computer generally comprises an automatic
`original conveying device for conveying sheets of an original to an image reading position one
`by one; and a reading means (scanner) for reading an original conveyed by the automatic original
`conveying device. Conventional image reading devices comprised a control unit 110 for
`controlling conveying of the original as well as reading, a memory unit, an image compression
`unit 120 and an interface unit 140 for controlling control unit 110, memory unit and image
`compression unit 120 based on commands from the host, so that image data is transferred to host
`side, as indicated in Figure 18.
`
`[0003]
`In addition, read images are first saved in FIFO memory 12b through video I/F12a in the memory
`unit and image compression unit 12, as indicated in detail in Figure 19. Furthermore, first-in and
`first-out in FIFO memory 12b is controlled by FIFO controller 12c. Then, image data saved in
`FIFO memory 12b are compressed by image compression block 13a and outputted to interface
`unit 140 via output I/F 13b.
`
`[0004]
`In this case, interface unit 140 obtains the image format, the contrast, the dithering and the
`information about the image compression mode when interface unit 140 receive an image read
`command from the host computer. Each of information on image format, contrast and dithering
`is set to control unit 110 in Step S21 and information on the image compression mode is set in
`memory unit 120 in Step S22. Then, the read command (Q command) is sent to control unit 110
`(Step S23), the image data are read from memory unit 120 and transferred to the host computer
`(Step S24). In addition, if the next original to be read exists, the read command is sent to control
`unit 110 and this is repeated (Steps S23 through S25).
`
`[0005]
`Meanwhile, when control unit 110 receives an image read command, original is fed (Steps S1,
`S2), as indicated in Figure 21; the read data are transferred to memory unit 120 by moving on to
`image transfer processing, as indicated in detail in Figure 7 (Step S3). In Step S4, the read
`original is fed (Steps S6) when the next original exists (Steps S5), thereby terminating the series
`of scanning operations.
`
`[0006]
`[Problems Solved by the Invention]
`However, in the conventional image reading device, interface unit 140 transferred image data to
`the host computer, as indicated in Figure 20, (Step S24), then a read command for the next
`original was sent to control unit 11 (Step S23), thereby a gap time is occurred, in FIFO memory
`12b, between the completing reading and the next reading. As a result, there was a problem in
`that the processing efficiency (throughput) was poor. In particular, when the interface between
`interface unit 14 and control unit 110 was RS232C, this gap time became longer.
`
`[0007]
`
` 
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`Taking note of the abovementioned problems, it is an object of the present invention to provide
`an image reading device which can improve throughput when an original image is read according
`to acommand from a host computer and image data is transferred to the host computer.
`
`[0008]
`[Means of Solving the Problems]
`In order to attain the abovementioned objective, the first means is characterized by comprising an
`automatic original conveying device for conveying sheets of an original to an image read
`position one by one;
`a reader means for reading the original conveyed by the automatic original conveying device; a
`storage means for storing image data read by the reader means; a control means for controlling
`the automatic original conveying means and the reader means to store the image data in the
`storage means; and an interface for controlling the control means and the storage means
`according to a command from the host; wherein the storage means outputs EMPTY signals to the
`control means if the image data read by the interface is completed; the control means starts read
`operations for the next original by the reader means using the EMPTY signals as a trigger. The
`second means is characterized in that the control means of the first means completes the read
`operations by the reader means based on the number of sheets of the original read from the
`interface.
`
`[0009]
`The third means is characterized in that the storage means of the first means outputs EMPTY
`signals when the unused capacity is greater than quantity of the image data.
`
`[0010]
`The fourth means is characterized by comprising an automatic original conveying device for
`conveying sheets of the original to an image read position one by one; a first and a second reader
`means for reading each of the first face and the second face of the original conveyed by the
`automatic original conveying device; a first and a second storage means for storing each image
`data read by the first and the second reader means; and a control means for controlling the
`automatic original conveying device, the first and the second reader means to store the image
`data in the first and the second storage means; and an interface for controlling reading of the
`control means and the storage means according to a command from the host; wherein the first
`and the second storage means outputs EMPTY signals to the control means when reading of the
`image data by the interface is completed and the control means switches selectively the read
`paths of the first and the second storage means using the EMPTY signals as a trigger.
`
`[0011]
`[Actions]
`Thanks to the abovementioned configuration in the first means, the control means starts read
`operations of the reader means using EMPTY signals from the storage device as a trigger; the
`control means can start read operations for the next original without waiting for a read command
`from the interface; as a result, the throughput can be improved when the original image is read
`according to a command from the host computer and the image data is transferred to the host
`computer.
`
`
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`
`[0012]
`In the second means, the control means completes the read operations for the reader means based
`on the number of sheets in the original read by the interface, thereby the originals can be set to an
`original conveying device with mixing the different size originals.
`
`[0013]
`In the third means, the storage means outputs EMPTY signals when the unused capacity is
`greater than quantity of the image data of the next original so that the control means can start
`read operations for the next original even when the interface and host are communicating with
`one another, thus making it possible to improve the throughput.
`
`[0014]
`In the fourth means, the control means selectively switches the readout paths of the first and the
`second storage means using EMPTY signals as a trigger so that the control means can selectively
`switch the readout path without waiting for a read command, thereby making it possible to
`improve the throughput.
`
`[0015]
`[Embodiments]
`Next, we shall explain Embodiments of the present invention referring to figures.
`Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example of the image reading device in the present invention;
`Figure 2 is a configuration diagram of the read mechanism in this Embodiment;
`Figure 3 is a block diagram which indicates in detail the relation between the engine control unit
`in Figure 1 and the memory unit and the interface unit; Figure 4 is a block diagram which
`indicates in detail the memory unit in Figure 3; Figure 5 is a flow chart which explains how the
`interface unit in Figure 1 and Figure 3 operates; Figure 6 is a flow chart which explains control
`for the engine control unit in the first face unit in Figure 1 and Figure 3; Figure 7 is a flow chart
`which explains in detail the image transfer processing and image format indicated in Figure 6;
`Figure 8 is a flow chart which explains the important parts in an alternate example for the
`operations indicated in Figure 6; Figure 9 is a flow chart which explains the important parts in
`another alternate example for the operations indicated in Figure 6.
`
`[0016]
`First we shall explain the read mechanism referring to Figure 2. The mechanism works basically
`as follows. The original is moved and the reading optical group is fixed. Then, second face
`reading unit 18 is configured so that it can be mounted and detached freely relative to first face
`reading unit 100; and the first and second faces of one original 2 can be read simultaneously by
`first and second faces reading units 100 and 18.
`
`[0017]
`Original 2 which is placed on original document tray 1 of first face reading unit 100 is fetched
`one by one by pickup roller 3, paper feed roller 29 and conveying roller 4 so that it is conveyed
`to the read start position (to be discussed further on). Furthermore, no original detection sensor
`32 or jam detection sensor 31 is disposed on this conveying path, and resist sensor 30 used to
`detect the read start timing is disposed at the read start position.
`
`
` 
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`
`[0018]
`The first face at the bottom of original 2 which has reached the read start position is illuminated
`by fluorescent light 5; and light L1 reflected from this is introduced to the light-receiving surface
`of line CCD 8 via reflective mirror 6 and lens 7, and is subjected to photoelectric conversion to
`generate analog signals responsive to with the light intensity. As a result, the first face of original
`2 is scanned in the main scanning direction by line CCD 8 and is scanned in the secondary
`scanning direction when original 2 is conveyed.
`
`[0019]
`As indicated in Figure 1, line CCD 8 is driven by CCD driver 9 and the analog signals subjected
`to photoelectric conversion by line CCD 8 are converted to polynomial or binary digital signals
`by image data processing unit 10. Engine control unit 11 is configured so that each circuits of
`first face reading unit 100 and engine control unit 26 of second face reading unit 18 are
`controlled. Then, the digital signals converted by image data processing unit 10 are selected by
`data selection unit 28 and stored in memory unit 12. In addition, data in memory unit 12 are
`compressed by data compression unit 13 and are then transferred to host computer 15 via
`interface unit 14.
`
`[0020]
`The abovementioned pickup roller 3, paper feed roller 29 and conveying roller 4 convey original
`2 in the secondary scanning direction when the rotation of pulse motor 16 is transferred via paper
`feed clutch 17. In addition, fluorescent light 5 illuminates the first face of original 2 when the
`illuminance which is stabilized by stabilizer 33 is maintained. First face reading unit 100 is also
`equipped with common power unit 35 for units and stabilizer 34 for fluorescent light 21 in the
`second face reading unit 18 side. Next, we shall describe the configuration of second face reading
`unit 18.
`As indicated above, the second face of original 2 which has been conveyed by first face reading
`unit 100 is illuminated by fluorescent light 21; and reflected light L2 is introduced to light-
`receiving surface of CCD23 via reflective mirrors 19 and 20 and lens 22, and is subjected to
`photoelectric conversion to generate analog signals responsive to the light intensity. Then, line
`CCD 23 is likewise driven by CCD driver 24 and the analog signals subjected to photoelectric
`conversion by line CCD 23 are converted to polynomial or binary digital signals by image data
`processing unit 25.
`
`[0021]
`As indicated in Figure 1, engine control unit 26 is configured so that each circuit in the second
`face reading unit is controlled. Then, digital signals converted by image data processing unit 25
`are stored in memory unit 27, and are selected by data selection unit 28 in first face reading unit
`100 and stored in memory unit 12. After these have been compressed by data compression unit
`13, they are transferred to host computer 15 via interface unit 14.
`
`[0022]
`Thus, original 2 of which only the first face is read or the first face and the second face are
`simultaneously read is , for example, printed with characters confirmed as read by endorser
`printing unit 38 equipped with an ink jet printer head, and is ejected onto ejection tray 36.
`Furthermore, the data of the characters confirmed as read are transferred to engine control unit 11
`
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`via interface unit 14 from host computer 15; engine control unit 11 converts these data to code
`strings for the ink jet printer head of endorser printing unit 38, and transfers these code strings to
`FIFO (first in, first out) memory in endorser control unit 37. Endorser control unit 37 carries out
`printing control for the characters confirmed as read by transferring the data in FIFO memory to
`endorser printing unit 38 at a predetermined timing.
`
`[0023]
`We shall describe the flow of control commands from host computer 15 referring to Figure 1 and
`Figure 3. These commands are transferred to interface unit 14 via SCSI I/F. Interface unit 14
`transfers commands using ASCII code by RS232C I/F to engine control unit 11 of first face
`reading unit 100. For example, a paper feed command letter “V” is sent as its ASCII code "56H"
`and an image transfer command letter “L” is sent as its ASCII code "4C".
`
`[0024]
`In the memory board (memory unit 12, data compression unit 13), as indicated in detail in Figure
`4, the image selected by data selection unit 28 is first saved in FIFO memory 12b via video I/F
`12a. First-in and first-out of FIFO memory 12b is controlled by FIFO controller 12d, and FIFO
`controller 12d is also configured so that read complete signal EMPTY of FIFO memory 12b is
`outputted to engine control unit 11. Then, the image data saved in FIFO memory 12b is
`compressed by image compression block 13a and outputted to interface unit 14 via output I/F
`13b.
`
`[0025]
`When an image read command is received from host computer 15, interface unit 14 obtains
`information about the image format, the contrast, the dithering, and the image compression mode.
`Interface unit 14 sets, in Step S31 indicated in Figure 5, all of the information regarding the
`image format, the contrast and the dithering to engine control unit 11, and sets, in Step S32,
`information about the image compression mode to image compression unit 13.
`
`[0026]
`Next, a read command (Q command) is sent to engine control unit 11 (Step S33), and the image
`data are read out from memory unit 12 and 13 and transferred to host computer 15 (Step S34). In
`addition, when the next original exists, another read command is sent to engine control unit 11
`and this is repeated (Steps S34, S35).
`
`[0027]
`When engine control unit 11 receives the image read command, the sequence indicated in Figure
`6 and Figure 7 (a) is executed. First, original 2 is fed by powering on the solenoid to drive paper
`feed clutch 17 (Step S41) and if resist sensor 30 is powered on, one moves to the image transfer
`processing indicated in detail in Figure 7 (a) (Step S42).
`
`[0028]
`In the processing indicated in Figure 7 (a), fluorescent light 5 lights up (Step S11), then the
`image format indicated in Figure 7 (b) is set (Step S12). This format consists of the image data
`read area indicated by the slanted line (range of Dx, Dy), the image data read address (Ax, Ay),
`the setting data indicating the setting for the rate of reduction, and the like. On the next Step S13,
`
` 
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`the masking pattern is written. This is a pattern used to set an area used for thinning of the image
`data in 1 line. Specifically, the read start address in the main scanning direction and the reduction
`rate are set.
`
`[0029]
`Next, the throughput for pulse motor 16 is improved (Step S14), input for the line interrupt is
`enabled (Step S15), then one moves on to the image data transfer processing (Step S16) for
`memory unit 12. Then, when data transfer for the range of Dx, Dy in the format set in Step S12 is
`completed (Step S17), one proceeds to Step S43 as indicated in Figure 6. In Step S43, the
`original which has been read is ejected, and when the next original exists, that original is fed
`(Steps S44, S45). When read complete signal EMPTY is received (Step S46), one returns to Step
`S42 and the image transfer processing for the next original is carried out.
`
`[0030]
`Thus, in the abovementioned embodiment, read complete signal EMPTY of FIFO memory 12b is
`outputted to engine control unit 11 so that engine control unit 11 can start the read operations for
`the next original without waiting for the read command from interface unit 14. Thus, the empty
`time in FIFO memory 12b can be shortened. In addition, as indicated in Figure 5, if the next
`original to be read exists, interface unit 14 can transfer the next image data promptly to host
`computer 15 without sending another read command to engine control unit 11 (Step S34, S35).
`
`[0031]
`In addition, when waiting for a read complete signal EMPTY in Step S46 indicated in Figure 6, it
`is possible to prevent entry into an endless loop when there is an error in FIFO memory 12b by
`adding the timeout error processing (Steps S47, S48) indicated in Figure 8. In addition, the
`number of continuously read sheets is received from interface unit 14 when the first image
`reading is carried out as indicated in Figure 6, and if the next original exists in Step S44, by
`inserting determining Step S49 which determines completion of the sheets to be read as indicated
`in Figure 9, it makes possible to read only designated number of originals. In addition, originals
`of differing sizes can be placed in a batch, set in original document tray 1 and read the originals
`while changing image format for each of designated number of sheets.
`
` [0032]
`Here, a 4 MB memory unit 12 can used as the standard capacity when reading an A3-size
`original at 400 DPI. However, half that capacity can be used when reading, for example, an A4-
`size original at 400 DPI so memory unit 12 can be used efficiently. Next, we shall explain
`Second Embodiment of the present invention.
`
`[0033]
`Figure 10 is a block diagram indicating in detail the relation between an engine control unit,
`memory unit and interface unit in the Second Embodiment. Figure 11 is a block diagram
`indicating in detail the memory unit in Figure 14. Figure 12 through Figure 15 is an explanatory
`diagram indicating the storage contents of the memory unit.
`
`[0034]
`Data quantity memory counter 12f is added on to memory unit 121 in this Embodiment.
`
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`This counter 12f reduces the quantity of data from control unit 111 using the clock from FIFO
`controller 12e; it is configured so that when this is [0], read complete signal EMPTY is outputted
`to control unit 11.
`
`[0035]
`Then, the first image data of the A4-size original is saved sequentially from address 0 on, as
`indicated in Figure 12. When reading is completed, the second image data of an A4-size can be
`saved.
`In addition, the write address indicated in Figure 12 indicates the final address for the data,
`and when interface unit 14 has already started reading the image data of the first page and reads
`it sequentially from address 0, the read address increases as indicated in Figure 13.
`
`[0036]
`Then, the count value of counter 12f is ‘0’, as indicated in Figure 14 and read complete signal
`EMPTY becomes active and when control unit 111 reads the third original, the image data is
`stored as indicated in Figure 15. In addition, the area in FIFO memory 12b can effectively utilize
`by repeating this processing until the original disappears is not present or until the designated
`number of sheets is reached.
`
`[0037]
`Next, we shall explain Third Embodiment. Figure 16 is a block diagram used to explain how the
`main parts of Third Embodiment are operated. Figure 17 is a flow chart used to explain how the
`control unit for first face in Figure 16 is operated. In this example, first and second faces of
`original 2 are read simultaneously by first and second reading units 100, 18; and memory units
`12, 27 of the first and second faces output respectively read complete signals EMPTY 1, EMPTY
`2 to control unit 11 of the first face. Furthermore, no image compression unit is placed on the
`second face unit 18 side and compression unit 13 on the first face side is used for each face read.
`
`[0038]
`Then, when an image read command is inputted from interface unit 14, this control unit 11, as
`indicated in Figure 17, feeds first sheet of original 2 (Step S51), and image transfer for the first
`face is carried out and an image transfer command for the second face is sent to control unit 26
`on the second face side (Step S52).
`
`[0039]
`Next, it waits for read complete signal EMPTY 1 from memory unit 12 on the first face side
`(Step S53), and when this signal becomes active, input for data selection unit 28 is switched to
`the second face side (Step S54). As a result, image data from memory unit 27 on the second face
`side is compressed by compression unit 13 on the first face side and is outputted to interface 14.
`
`[0040]
`Next, when the next original is ready, a judgment is made as to whether the designated number of
`faces has been completed (Steps S55, S56); if NO, the next original is fed (Step S57), and it waits
`we wait for read complete signal EMPTY2 from memory unit 27 on the second face side (Step
`S58), and it return to Step S52 when this signal is active.
`
`
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`[0041]
`As a result, in this Embodiment, control unit 11 switches the data pass without receiving a
`command from interface unit 14. In addition, feeding of the next original is started by read
`complete signal EMPTY 2 from memory unit 27 on the second face side, and the throughput can
`be upgraded.
`
`[0042]
`[Effect of Invention]
`As has already been explained, the invention as described in Claim 1 comprising
`an automatic original conveying device for conveying an original to the image read position one
`by one; a reader means for reading the original conveyed by the automatic original conveying
`device; a storage means for storing image data read by the reader means;
`a control means for controlling the automatic original conveying device and the reader means;
`and an interface for controlling read of the control means and the storage means according to a
`command from the host; the storage means outputs EMPTY signals to the control means if the
`image data read by the interface is completed; and the control means starts read operations for
`the next original by the reader means using this EMPTY signal as a trigger;
`the read operations for each original can start without having to wait for a read command from
`the interface; as a result, the throughput can be upgraded when the original image is read by a
`command from the host computer and is transferred to the host computer.
`
` [0043]
`The invention as described in Claim 2 is that the control means of Claim 1 completes the read
`operations of the reader means based on the number of sheets of the original read from the
`interface so that originals of varying sizes are mixed together and can be set on the original
`conveying device.
`
`[0044]
`The invention as described in Claim 3 is that the storage means of Claim 1 outputs EMPTY
`signals when the unused capacity is greater than the quantity of image data in the next original so
`that the control means can start read operations even when the interface and the host side are
`communicating with one another, thereby making it possible to upgrade the throughput.
`
` [0045]
`The invention as described in Claim 4 comprising an automatic original conveying device for
`conveying sheets of an original to an image read position one by one; a first and a second reader
`means for reading each of the first and second faces of the original conveyed by the automatic
`original conveying device; a first and a second storage means for storing each image data ready
`by the first and the second reader means; a control means for controlling the automatic original
`conveying means and the first and the second reader means and to store the image data in the
`first and the second storage means; and an interface for controlling read of the control means and
`the storage means according to a command from the host; the first and second storage means
`output EMPTY signals to the control means when the reading of the image data by the interface
`is completed; the control means switches selectively the reading path for the first and second
`storage means using the EMPTY signal as a trigger so that the control means can selectively
`switch the reading path without having to wait for a read command from the interface, thereby
`making it possible to upgrade the throughput.
`
` 
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`
`[Brief Explanation of Figures]
`[Figure 1] A block diagram of an Embodiment of the image reading device in the present
`invention.
`[Figure 2] A configuration diagram of the reading mechanism in the Embodiment of the present
`invention.
`[Figure 3] A block diagram indicating in detail the relation between the engine control unit, the
`memory unit and the interface unit indicated in Figure 1.
`[Figure 4] A block diagram indicating in detail the memory unit in Figure 3.
`[Figure 5] A flow chart explaining how the interface unit in Figure 1 and Figure 3 operates.
`[Figure 6] A flow chart explaining the control of the engine control unit in the first face unit in
`Figure 1 and Figure 3.
`[Figure 7] A flow chart explaining in detail the image transfer processing and the image format
`indicated in Figure 6.
`[Figure 8] A flow chart explaining the important parts in an alternate example of the operations
`in Figure 6.
`[Figure 9] A flow chart explaining the important parts in another alternate example of the
`operations in Figure 5.
`[Figure 10] A block diagram indicating in detail the relation between the engine control unit in
`Second Embodiment, the memory unit and the interface unit.
`[Figure 11] A block diagram indicating in detail the memory unit in Figure 10.
`[Figure 12] An explanatory diagram of the storage contents of the memory unit in Second
`Embodiment.
`[Figure 13] An explanatory diagram of the storage contents of the memory unit in Second
`Embodiment.
`[Figure 14] An explanatory diagram of the storage contents of the memory unit in Second
`Embodiment.
`[Figure 15] An explanatory diagram of the storage contents of the memory unit in Second
`Embodiment.
`[Figure 16] A block diagram explaining the operations of the main parts of Third Embodiment .
`[Figure 17] A flow chart explaining the operations of the first face in Figure 16.
`[Figure 18] A block diagram indicating the important parts of the conventional image reading
`device.
`[Figure 19] A block diagram indicating in detail the memory unit in Figure 18.
`[Figure 20] A flow chart explaining the operations of the interface unit in Figure 18.
`[Figure 21] A flow chart explaining control for the engine control unit in Figure 18.
`
`[Explanation of Notation]
`8, 23…line CCD
`11, 26…engine control unit
`12, 17…memory unit
`13…data compression unit
`14…interface unit
`15...host computer
`16…pulse motor
`1