Photocopying – Projection printing and copying cameras – Detailed holder for original
Reexamination Certificate
1999-12-20
2001-11-20
Adams, Russell (Department: 2851)
Photocopying
Projection printing and copying cameras
Detailed holder for original
C355S040000, C355S074000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06320650
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to image capture devices which include image and document scanners transparent scanning service. More particularly, the present invention is directed to an improved apparatus for assuring positioning of a document on the scanning device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In a typical scanning device, there is provided a scanning service over which there is provided a cover which is used to hold and position the document to be scanned. A problem with prior art devices is that after the document is placed on the scanning platen, during positioning of the cover onto the platen, the document often moves which results in mis-positioning of the document. The operator of the scanner is forced to position the document without knowing if the positioning is correct until the scanning is previewed or the scan is complete. Often the image will be physically rotated from its position as established by the operator before the cover is placed over the image. This mis-positioning of the document results in scanning of only a portion of the original document and/or scanning the wrong portion of the image on the document. Alternatively, the operator must correct the mis-positioning after the scan is complete, which is a tedious and time-consuming operation. Since the scanned image is often printed, uncorrected positioning may result in an undesirable and/or useless copy. Another problem associated with prior art devices is that it is often difficult to determine where on the platen to properly place the document. This again results in obtaining undesirable or useless copies of the scanned image.
The present invention provides an improved apparatus whereby a document can be accurately placed upon the scanning platen and positioned securely such that before the actual scanning or copying mode. Thus the appropriate area to be copied is obtained without multiple tries.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for capturing an image, comprising:
a. a support platen for receiving a document having a front image bearing side and a back side co-extensive with the front side;
b. an image capture element disposed below the platen for capturing an image on the front image side;
c. a first light source for illuminating the document such that at least one distinguishing feature of the document is visible so that the document can be positioned on the platen;
d. a first positioning cover designed for placement over the document, the first positioning cover being made of material such that at least one distinguishing feature of the document can be viewed through the first positioning cover when the first light source is illuminated; and
e. a second cover for placement over the first positioning cover, the second cover being substantially opaque and used for when the image on the front image side is illuminating for capture of the image.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for capturing an image, comprising:
a. a support platen for receiving a document having a front image bearing side and a back side co-extensive with the front side;
b. an image capture element disposed below the platen for capturing an image on the front image side;
c. a first positioning cover designed for placement over the document, the first positioning cover being made of material such that the position of the document can be viewed through the first positioning cover; and
d. a reticle forming device for producing a reticle on the first positioning cover so that the document can be positioned on the platen.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of positioning a document on an image capture apparatus, the apparatus having a platen on which a document may be placed for scanning, comprising the steps of:
a. placing a document on the platen, the document having a front image bearing side and a back side co-extensive with the front side;
b. placing a first position cover over the document, the first position cover being made of material such that the at least one distinguishing feature of the document can be viewed through the first position cover when the first light source is illuminated; and
c. illuminating the document such that at least one distinguishing feature of the document is visible so that the document can be positioned on the platen.
In still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of positioning a document on an image capture apparatus, the apparatus having a platen on which a document may be placed for scanning, comprising the steps of:
a. placing a document on the platen, the document having a front image bearing side and a back side co-extensive with the front side;
b. placing a first position cover over the document, the first position cover being made of material such that the document can be viewed through the first position; and
c. illuminating the document with a reticle so that the document can be positioned on said platen.
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Fredlund John R.
Mackson Richard G.
Adams Russell
Eastman Kodak Company
Nguyen Hung Henry
Pincelli Frank
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