JP3688857B2 - Image reading device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus, and in particular, performs preliminary reading on an image, determines a reading condition for performing the main reading of the image based on a result of the preliminary reading, and reads the image book under the reading condition. The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus that performs reading.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, after a film image recorded on a photographic film is read by an image reading apparatus having a reading sensor such as a CCD, and image processing such as various corrections is performed on the image data obtained by the reading. An image processing system for recording an image on a recording material or displaying an image on a display is known. Further, since film images (particularly negative images recorded on a negative film) have a large variation in density, the image reader preliminarily reads the film image (so-called so-called image quality) in order to obtain a recorded image or display image having a desired image quality. Pre-scan), reading conditions (for example, the amount of light applied to the film image, charge accumulation time of the CCD, etc.) corresponding to the density of the film image were determined, and the film image was read under the determined reading conditions (so-called fine scanning). scan).
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, while pre-scanning is performed under certain scanning conditions, especially in negative images recorded on negative film, images with extremely low density (overexposure) due to excessive exposure during shooting. Negative image) or an image having an extremely high density (negative image of underexposure) may exist due to insufficient exposure at the time of shooting. In a pre-scan for an overexposed negative image, the amount of light transmitted through the negative image becomes excessive and saturation occurs in the reading sensor (for example, if the reading sensor is a CCD, the accumulated charge is saturated). It is difficult to accurately read a negative image. In addition, since the amount of light transmitted through the negative image is insufficient in the prescan with respect to the negative image of the exposure undertone, it is difficult to accurately read the negative image of the underexposure similarly.
[0004]
Since the scanning conditions for fine scanning are determined based on the results of pre-scanning, as described above, for images with low reading accuracy during pre-scanning, appropriate scanning conditions for fine scanning are used. There is a problem that even if fine scanning is performed under the determined reading conditions, the image cannot be read with high accuracy.
[0005]
In particular, when the image data obtained by fine scanning is used for recording an image that requires high image quality (for example, when recording on a recording material in a large size), fine scanning is performed under appropriate reading conditions. Without scanning, the image quality often becomes a problem.
[0006]
The present invention has been made in consideration of the above facts, and an image reading apparatus capable of reading each image with high accuracy even when an image to be read is mixed with images having significantly different proper reading conditions. The purpose is to obtain.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, an image reading apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a reading unit that reads an image, and a main reading of the image based on a result of a preliminary reading of the image by the reading unit. Determining means for determining the reading conditions, and determining means for determining whether or not it is necessary to perform preliminary reading of the image again based on a result of the preliminary reading of the image by the reading means;A selection means for selecting whether or not to perform preliminary scanning again on the image;The reading unit sequentially performs preliminary reading on each of a plurality of images, and causes each image to be read under the reading conditions determined by the determining unit based on the preliminary reading result, and the determination unit performs preliminary reading. There are images that have been determined to need to be performed again.And when it is selected to perform preliminary reading again through the selection means,Control means for performing the main reading of the image under the reading condition determined by the determination means from the result of the preliminary reading again after the preliminary reading for the image is performed again under a different reading condition from the previous time.The determining means is selected not to perform preliminary reading again for the image via the selecting means, and there is an image that is determined to be required to perform preliminary reading again by the determining means. Is characterized in that a reading condition for performing the main reading of the image is determined by estimation based on a result of preliminary reading of the image.
[0008]
According to the first aspect of the present invention, based on the result of the preliminary reading of the image by the reading means, the determining means determines a reading condition for performing the main reading of the image, and the determining means performs the preliminary reading of the image. Determine whether it is necessary to do it again. The determination of the reading condition by the determining unit can be performed based on the feature amount (for example, maximum density, minimum density, etc.) of the image obtained from the result of preliminary reading, for example. In addition, it is estimated that it is difficult to accurately read the image under standard reading conditions based on, for example, the result of the preliminary reading. For example, whether or not the density is extremely high or extremely low, and the above-mentioned determination can be performed by, for example, the image obtained from the result of preliminary reading. This feature amount (for example, maximum density, minimum density, average density, etc.) can be compared with a threshold value.
[0009]
On the other hand, the control unit causes the reading unit to sequentially perform preliminary reading on each of the plurality of images, and causes each image to be read with the reading condition determined by the determining unit from the result of the preliminary reading. The preliminary reading for each of the plurality of images can be performed, for example, under a predetermined reading condition (a standard reading condition that allows a large number of images to be read with high accuracy). As a result, the majority of images that do not have the characteristics that are estimated to be difficult to read with high accuracy under standard reading conditions (images that are determined not to be subjected to preliminary reading again by the determination unit). Can be accurately read by the preliminary reading, and an appropriate reading condition is determined by the determining means as a reading condition at the time of the main reading.
[0010]
  here,By judging meansImageImages that are determined to need to be pre-read againHowever, when the preliminary reading is performed unconditionally again, the reading accuracy at the time of the main reading of the image is improved, but compared with the case where the preliminary reading of the image is not performed again, the unit time The number of read images per hit decreases. On the other hand, especially when reading a large number of images, the number of read images per unit time can be maintained rather than improving the reading accuracy at the time of actual reading of images determined to need to be pre-readed again. There may be a case where priority is given to (avoidance of a decrease in the number of read images per unit time). In view of this, the invention of claim 1 is provided with a selection means for selecting whether or not to perform preliminary reading again on the image, and the control means needs to perform preliminary reading again by the determination means. Only if there is an image that has been determined to be present and it has been selected to perform a preliminary scan again on the image via the selection meansThe preliminary reading for the image is performed again under different reading conditions from the previous time. The reading conditions for the second preliminary reading may be determined for each image on which the preliminary reading is performed again based on the determination result by the determination unit, or an image for which it is determined that the preliminary reading needs to be performed again. There are images for which it is determined that pre-reading needs to be performed again by setting scanning conditions in advance for each type of feature (for example, whether the density is extremely high or extremely low). A reading condition corresponding to the type of feature being used may be used.
[0011]
  As described above, for images that are determined to need to be pre-read again,If you choose to pre-read the image again,By performing pre-reading again under different reading conditions from the previous time, an image having characteristics that are estimated to be difficult to read with high accuracy under standard reading conditions can be obtained with high accuracy in this pre-reading. It is possible to read, and the determining unit determines an appropriate reading condition as a reading condition at the time of the main reading. And the control meansPre-reading was performed again under different reading conditions from the previous time.For the image, the main reading of the image is performed under the reading condition determined by the determining means from the result of the preliminary reading again.
[0012]
  As described above, in the first aspect of the present invention, even if an image to be read has a mixture of images with significantly different proper reading conditions (images that are difficult to read with high accuracy under standard reading conditions),If you choose to pre-read the image again,By performing preliminary reading again on the image, it is possible to obtain appropriate reading conditions for all the images to be read, and to use each appropriate reading condition obtained for each image to be read. Therefore, even if images with significantly different proper reading conditions are mixed in the image to be read, each image can be read with high accuracy.
[0013]
  According to the first aspect of the present invention, only when there is an image that is determined to need to be pre-readed again and it is selected to perform pre-reading again via the selection unit, the image is read again. Therefore, for example, when it is selected by the user or the like that the preliminary reading is not performed through the selection unit, there is an image that is determined to be required to perform the preliminary reading again. However, the preliminary reading for the image is not performed again. Therefore, priority is given to the improvement of the reading accuracy at the time of the main reading of the image determined that the preliminary reading needs to be performed again by selecting whether or not the preliminary reading of the image is performed again through the selection unit. Also, priority can be given to maintaining the number of read images per unit time.
  Furthermore, when the image that has been subjected to the preliminary reading is an image that is determined to need to be subjected to the preliminary reading again by the determination unit, the result of the preliminary reading for the image is appropriate as the reading condition at the time of the main reading. Although it is difficult to determine the reading conditions with high accuracy, the type of feature (for example, whether the density is extremely high or extremely low) that the image has been determined to require preliminary scanning again. From the above, it is possible to estimate a proper reading condition at the time of actual reading to some extent. Based on the above, the decision means according to the invention of claim 1 is selected not to perform preliminary reading again for the image via the selection means, and there is an image that is determined to need to be read again. In this case, since the reading condition for performing the main reading of the image is determined by estimation based on the result of performing the preliminary reading on the image, the selection unit may not perform the preliminary reading again on the image. The image is determined to be preliminarily read again without performing preliminary read again, that is, without reducing the number of read images per unit time. The reading accuracy at the time of book reading can be improved to some extent.
[0014]
  Further, the plurality of images to be read are a plurality of film images sequentially recorded on a long photographic film, and each film image is read while the photographic film is conveyed by the conveying means.At the same time, it is selected to perform preliminary reading again through the selection means.In this case, for example, preliminary reading is performed, and the process waits until the determination by the determination unit is confirmed. If it is determined that the preliminary reading is necessary again, the preliminary reading is performed again, and then the next adjacent film image is read. Although it is possible to perform preliminary reading of each film image by repeating similar processing, the above method has a problem that it takes time to perform preliminary reading.
[0015]
  For this reason, as described in claim 2, the control means needs to carry out preliminary reading for each of a plurality of film images in order by carrying the photographic film in a predetermined direction by the carrying means, and perform the preliminary reading again. A film image determined to beAnd pre-reading is selected again through the selection means.In this case, when it is determined that there is a film image that is determined to need to be pre-read again, the pre-read for each of the plurality of film images is interrupted, and the photographic film is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction. The film image is transported to perform preliminary scanning again, or after the preliminary scanning of each of the plurality of film images is completed, the photographic film is transported in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and the film image is scanned again. It is preferable to perform preliminary reading.
[0016]
According to the second aspect of the present invention, the preliminary reading for each of the plurality of film images and the determination as to whether or not the preliminary reading by the determination unit needs to be performed again are performed in parallel. There is no need to wait until the determination by the determination means is confirmed. For this reason, as in the method described above, the time required for preliminary reading of the film image increases by the time required for the determination means to determine whether or not it is necessary to perform preliminary reading again for each film image. In other words, the time required for preliminary reading of the film image can be shortened.
[0017]
A method of interrupting preliminary reading for each of a plurality of film images at the time when it is determined that there is a film image determined to be required to perform preliminary reading again, and performing preliminary reading for the film image again. Whether the determination unit needs to perform the preliminary reading again as to which of the methods for performing the preliminary reading of the film image again after the preliminary reading of each of the plurality of film images is completed. Taking into account the time required to determine a single film image, the distance that the photographic film is transported within that time, and the frequency of appearance of the film image determined to require pre-reading again. Select a method that is estimated to be less transported (a method that is estimated to require less time for preliminary scanning) It may be Re.
[0018]
In addition, when the preliminary reading for each of the plurality of film images is completed, when the photographic film is transported in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction to perform the preliminary reading again for the film image, For a film image that is determined to need to be pre-read again while being transported in the direction opposite to the direction (or while being transported in the predetermined direction after being transported to the end in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction). Only the preliminary reading may be performed again, and then the main reading may be performed on each of the plurality of film images. Further, it is necessary to carry out preliminary reading again while transporting the photographic film in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction (or while transporting it in the predetermined direction after being transported to the end in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction). The film image that is not determined to be the main scan, and the film image that is determined to need the preliminary scan again, the preliminary scan and the main scan (or only the preliminary read) are performed again. It may be.
[0019]
  In the invention of claim 1, when performing image processing according to the image content of the image, etc., on the result of performing the main reading of the image, the determining means, for example, as described in claim 3, Based on the result of the preliminary reading of the image by the reading means, in addition to determining the reading conditions when performing the main reading of the image, the image processing processing for the image data obtained by performing the main reading of the image Conditions may also be determined. In general, it takes time to determine the processing conditions of image processing for the result of the main image reading, but if the processing conditions are determined based on the result of the preliminary image reading, the image book The image processing for the result of reading can be completed in a short time.
[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0027]
  [FirstComparative example]
  In the following, first bookFirst comparative exampleA digital laboratory system related to the above will be described.
[0028]
  (Schematic configuration of the entire system)
  Figure 1 shows a bookComparative exampleA digital laboratory system 10 is shown. The laboratory system 10 includes an input unit including an area CCD scanner 12, a line CCD scanner 14, and an image processing unit 16, and an output unit including a laser printer unit 18 and a processor unit 20. The area CCD scanner 12 and the line CCD scanner 14 correspond to the reading means of the present invention.
[0029]
The area CCD scanner 12 and the line CCD scanner 14 are for reading a film image recorded on a photographic film such as a negative film or a reversal film. For example, the area CCD scanner 12 is a 135 sized photographic film and a 110 sized film. The film image of a photographic film and a photographic film (240-size photographic film: so-called APS film) on which a transparent magnetic layer is formed is to be read, and the line CCD scanner 14 is a 120-size and 220-size (Broni size) photographic film. This film image can be read.
[0030]
The area CCD scanner 12 and the line CCD scanner 14 read the film image to be read by the area CCD or the line CCD, and output image data. Note that the digital laboratory system 10 does not necessarily include both the area CCD scanner 12 and the line CCD scanner 14. For example, when the size of a photographic film for reading a film image is limited, the area CCD scanner 12 or the line CCD scanner 14 (for example, the area CCD scanner 12) can be provided.
[0031]
The image processing unit 16 receives image data (scanned image data) output from the area CCD scanner 12 or the line CCD scanner 14, and also includes image data obtained by photographing with a digital camera and originals other than film images (film images). For example, image data obtained by reading a reflective document or the like by a scanner, image data generated by a computer (hereinafter collectively referred to as file image data), and the like are input from the outside (for example, stored in a memory card or the like). It is also possible to input via a medium or input from another information processing device via a communication line.
[0032]
The image processing unit 16 performs image processing such as various corrections on the input image data, and outputs the image data to the laser printer unit 18 as recording image data. Further, the image processing unit 16 outputs the image data subjected to the image processing to the outside as an image file (for example, outputs it to a storage medium such as a memory card, or transmits it to another information processing device via a communication line). ) Is also possible.
[0033]
The laser printer unit 18 includes R, G, and B laser light sources, irradiates the photographic paper with laser light modulated according to the recording image data input from the image processing unit 16, and performs photographic paper by scanning exposure. Record an image on The processor unit 20 performs color development, bleach-fixing, water washing, and drying on the photographic paper on which an image is recorded by scanning exposure in the laser printer unit 18. As a result, an image is formed on the photographic paper.
[0034]
(Configuration of area CCD scanner)
Next, the configuration of the area CCD scanner 12 will be described. FIG. 2 shows a schematic configuration of the optical system of the area CCD scanner 12. This optical system is composed of a halogen lamp, a metal halide lamp, or the like, and includes a light source 30 that irradiates light to the photographic film 22. The light emission side of the light source 30 adjusts the amount of light radiated to the photographic film 22. , An aperture 32, a color separation filter unit 34, and a light diffusion box 36 for diffusing the light applied to the photographic film 22 are arranged in this order. The color separation filter unit 34 is configured by fitting R, G, and B color separation filters 34R, 34G, and 34B into a turret 34A that is rotatable along the direction of arrow A in FIG.
[0035]
The photographic film 22 is positioned by a film carrier 38 (see FIG. 5, not shown in FIG. 2) so that the screen center of the film image coincides with the optical axis L. Although FIG. 2 shows a long photographic film 22, a dedicated film carrier is prepared for each of the slide film (reversal film) and APS film held in the slide holder for each frame. (A film carrier for an APS film has a magnetic head for reading information magnetically recorded on the magnetic layer), and it is also possible to position film images of these photographic films.
[0036]
On the opposite side of the photographic film 22 from the light source 30, a lens unit 40 that forms an image of light transmitted through the film image and an area CCD 42 are arranged in this order along the optical axis L. Although FIG. 2 shows only a single lens as the lens unit 40, the lens unit 40 is actually a zoom lens composed of a plurality of lenses. The area CCD 42 is a monochrome CCD in which a large number of CCD cells are arranged in a matrix, and is arranged so that the light receiving surface coincides with the imaging point position of the lens unit 40.
[0037]
The area CCD 42 is provided with piezo actuators 44X and 44Y. Piezo actuators are distorted and generate displacement when voltage is applied. In the piezoelectric actuators 44X and 44Y, the direction of occurrence of displacement is along the arrangement direction of the pixels of the area CCD 42 (arrow X direction and arrow Y direction in FIG. 2). Are arranged as follows. Although not shown, a shutter is provided between the area CCD 42 and the lens unit 40.
[0038]
FIG. 3 shows a schematic configuration of the electrical system of the area CCD scanner 12. A microprocessor 46 that controls the entire area CCD scanner 12 is mounted on the control board. A motor driver 48 is connected to the microprocessor 46, and a diaphragm drive motor 50 that slides the diaphragm 32 and a filter drive motor 54 that rotates the turret 34 A of the color separation filter unit 34 are connected to the motor driver 48. Yes.
[0039]
The microprocessor 46 turns on and off the light source 30 in conjunction with turning on and off a power switch (not shown). Further, the microprocessor 46 rotates the turret 34 </ b> A by the filter drive motor 54 when the film image is read (photometric) by the area CCD 42. Accordingly, the film image is sequentially read by the area CCD 42 for each component color. Further, the microprocessor 46 adjusts the amount of light incident on the area CCD 42 by sliding the diaphragm 32 with the diaphragm drive motor 50.
[0040]
In addition, piezo actuators 44X and 44Y are connected to the microprocessor 46 via a piezo driver 60. The microprocessor 46 causes the area CCD 42 to read a single film image four times for each component color, and in each reading, the position of the area CCD 42 is determined by the piezoelectric actuators 44X and 44Y in FIG. Move in the X or Y direction.
[0041]
The microprocessor 46 is connected to a RAM 64 (for example, SRAM) and a ROM 66 (for example, a ROM capable of rewriting stored contents) via a bus 62, and is also connected to a motor driver 68. The motor driver 68 moves the lens unit 40 by moving the zoom drive motor 70 and the entire lens unit 40 that change the zoom magnification of the lens unit 40 by relatively moving the positions of the plurality of lenses of the lens unit 40. A lens driving motor 106 for moving the image forming point position along the optical axis L is connected. The microprocessor 46 uses the zoom drive motor 70 to change the zoom magnification of the lens unit 40 to a desired magnification according to the size of the film image, whether or not to perform trimming, and the like.
[0042]
On the other hand, the area CCD 42 is mounted on the CCD substrate together with the timing generator 74. The timing generator 74 generates various timing signals (clock signals) for operating the area CCD 42 and an A / D converter 82 described later.
[0043]
The signal output terminal of the area CCD 42 is connected to the A / D converter 82 via an amplifier 76 mounted on the CCD substrate and amplifiers 78 and 80 mounted on the control substrate. An output terminal of the A / D converter 82 is connected to an interface (I / F) circuit 90 via a correlated double sampling circuit (CDS) 88. The CDS 88 samples feedthrough data representing the level of the feedthrough signal and pixel data representing the level of the pixel signal, and subtracts the feedthrough data from the pixel data for each pixel. Then, the calculation result (pixel data accurately corresponding to the accumulated charge amount in each CCD cell) is sequentially output to the image processing unit 16 as scan image data via the I / F circuit 90.
[0044]
The motor driver 68 is connected to a shutter drive motor 92 that opens and closes the shutter. The dark output of the area CCD 42 is corrected by the image processing unit 16 in the subsequent stage, but the dark output level can be obtained by the microprocessor 46 closing the shutter when the film image is not read. .
[0045]
(Configuration of line CCD scanner)
Next, the configuration of the line CCD scanner 14 will be described. The same parts as those of the area CCD scanner 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. Only parts different from the area CCD scanner 12 will be described.
[0046]
  FIG. 4 shows a schematic configuration of the optical system of the line CCD scanner 14. This optical system includes C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) dimming filters 114C and 114M between the light source 30 and the light diffusion box 36, instead of the diaphragm 32 and the color separation filter unit 34. 114Y are provided in order along the optical axis L of the emitted light, and a line CCD 116 is provided in place of the area CCD 42. BookComparative exampleThen, as the line CCD 116, three lines of CCD cell lines in which CCD cells are arranged in a line are provided, and one of R, G, and B color separation filters is attached to the light incident side of each line. A line color CCD is used.
[0047]
Although the illustration of the electrical system configuration of the line CCD scanner 14 is omitted, the filter drive motor 54 can move the dimming filters 114C, 114M, and 114Y independently. Also, since R, G, B photometric signals are output in parallel from the line CCD 116, three signal processing systems comprising the amplifiers 76, 78, 80, the A / D converter 82, and the CDS 88 shown in FIG. The I / F circuit 90 outputs R, G, and B image data as scan image data in parallel.
[0048]
(Configuration of image processing unit)
Next, the configuration of the image processing unit 16 will be described with reference to FIG. The image processing unit 16 includes an area scanner correction unit 120 corresponding to the area CCD scanner 12 and a line scanner correction unit 122 corresponding to the line CCD scanner 14.
[0049]
The area scanner correction unit 120 includes a dark correction circuit 124, a defective pixel correction unit 128, and a light correction circuit 130. The dark correction circuit 124 stores the image data (data indicating the dark output level of the area CCD 42) input from the area CCD scanner 12 for each pixel in a state where the light incident side of the area CCD 42 is shielded by the shutter. Then, correction is performed by subtracting the dark output level for each pixel from the scan image data input from the area CCD scanner 12.
[0050]
Further, the photoelectric conversion characteristics of the area CCD 42 also vary among the CCD cells. The bright correction circuit 130 at the subsequent stage of the defective pixel correction unit 128 reads the adjustment film image by the area CCD 42 in a state where the adjustment CCD image of the entire screen is set in the area CCD scanner 12. For each pixel based on the image data of the film image for adjustment input from the area CCD scanner 12 (the density variation for each pixel represented by this image data is caused by the variation in photoelectric conversion characteristics of each CCD cell). The gain is determined, and the image data of the film image to be read input from the area CCD scanner 12 is corrected for each pixel.
[0051]
On the other hand, in the image data of the film image for adjustment, if the density of a specific pixel is significantly different from the density of other pixels, there is some abnormality in the CCD cell corresponding to the specific pixel, and the specific These pixels can be determined as defective pixels. The defective pixel correction unit 128 stores the address of the defective pixel based on the image data of the film image for adjustment, and the defective pixel data among the image data of the film image to be read input from the area CCD scanner 12. Generates new data by interpolating from the data of surrounding pixels.
[0052]
The line scanner correction unit 122 is provided with three signal processing systems including the dark correction circuit 124, the defective pixel correction unit 128, and the light correction circuit 130, and R and G output in parallel from the line CCD scanner 14. , B image data is processed in parallel. Further, since the line CCD 116 has three lines (CCD cell rows) arranged in order along the transport direction of the photographic film 22 with a predetermined interval, each component of R, G, B from the line CCD scanner 14 is arranged. There is a time difference in the timing of starting the output of color image data. The line scanner correction unit 122 delays the output timing of the image data with a different delay time for each component color so that the R, G, B image data of the same pixel on the film image is output simultaneously.
[0053]
The output terminals of the area scanner correction unit 120 and the line scanner correction unit 122 are connected to the input terminal of the selector 132, and the image data output from the correction units 120 and 122 is input to the selector 132. The input end of the selector 132 is also connected to the data output end of the input / output controller 134, and file image data input from the outside is input to the selector 132 from the input / output controller 134. The output terminal of the selector 132 is connected to the input / output controller 134 and the data input terminals of the image processor units 136A and 136B, respectively. The selector 132 can selectively output input image data to each of the input / output controller 134 and the image processor units 136A and 136B.
[0054]
The image processor unit 136A includes a memory controller 138, an image processor 140, and three frame memories 142A, 142B, and 142C. Each of the frame memories 142A, 142B, 142C has a capacity capable of storing image data of a single film image, and the image data input from the selector 132 is stored in one of the three frame memories 142. However, the memory controller 138 stores the image data in the frame memory 142 so that the data of each pixel of the input image data is stored in the storage area of the frame memory 142 in a certain order. To control.
[0055]
The image processor 140 captures image data stored in the frame memory 142, performs gradation conversion, color conversion, hypertone processing for compressing the gradation of the ultra-low frequency brightness component of the image, and enhances sharpness while suppressing grain. Various image processing such as hyper sharpness processing is performed. The processing conditions for the image processing are automatically calculated by an auto setup engine 144 (described later), and image processing is performed according to the calculated processing conditions. The image processor 140 is connected to the input / output controller 134, and the image data subjected to image processing is temporarily stored in the frame memory 142 and then output to the input / output controller 134 at a predetermined timing. Note that the image processor unit 136B has the same configuration as the image processor unit 136A described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.
[0056]
  By the way, bookComparative exampleThen, each film image is read twice by the area CCD scanner 12 or the line CCD scanner 14. In the first reading (hereinafter referred to as prescan), even if the density of the film image is extremely low (for example, a negative image of an overexposed film in a negative film), the accumulated charge of the area CCD 42 or the line CCD 116 is not saturated. The film image is read under the reading conditions determined in the above (light quantity for each wavelength region of light R, G, B applied to the photographic film, charge accumulation time of the CCD). Image data (pre-scan image data) obtained by this pre-scan is input from the selector 132 to the input / output controller 134 and further output to the auto setup engine 144 connected to the input / output controller 134.
[0057]
The auto setup engine 144 includes a CPU 146, a RAM 148 (for example, DRAM), a ROM 150 (for example, a ROM whose contents can be rewritten), and an input / output port 152, which are connected to each other via a bus 154.
[0058]
The auto setup engine 144 determines a reading condition when performing a pre-scan of a film image. When pre-scan image data is input from the input / output controller 134, the auto setup engine 144 analyzes the film image based on the image data and performs shooting. The amount of exposure and the type of photographic light source are determined, and the reading conditions (the amount of light adjustment and the amount of charge storage time adjustment of the CCD) when reading the same film image again (hereinafter referred to as fine scanning) are individually set. Determined for each film image. The determined reading conditions are output to a scanner (area CCD scanner 12 or line CCD scanner 14) that performs fine scanning, and the film image is irradiated by adjusting the position of the diaphragm 32 or the light control filters 114C, 114M, 114Y. The amount of light for each component color is adjusted in units of individual film images, and the charge accumulation time of the area CCD 42 or line CCD 116 is adjusted in units of individual film images to perform fine scanning.
[0059]
Further, the auto setup engine 144 performs image processing on image data (fine scan image data) obtained by fine scan based on pre-scan image data of film images for a plurality of frames input from the input / output controller 134. The condition is calculated, and the calculated processing condition is output to the image processor 140 of the image processor unit 136. In the calculation of the processing conditions of this image processing, it is determined whether or not there are a plurality of film images obtained by photographing a similar scene from the exposure amount at the time of photographing, the type of photographing light source and other feature amounts, and a plurality of images obtained by photographing the similar scene. In the case where there are two film images, the processing conditions of the image processing for the fine scan image data of these film images are determined to be the same or approximate.
[0060]
The optimum processing conditions for image processing also vary depending on whether the image data after image processing is used for recording an image on photographic paper in the laser printer unit 18 or output to the outside. Since the image processing unit 16 includes two image processor units 136A and 136B, for example, when the image data is used for recording an image on photographic paper and is output to the outside, the auto setup engine 144 is used. Calculates the optimum processing conditions for each application and outputs them to the image processor units 136A and 136B. As a result, the image processors 136A and 136B perform image processing on the same fine scan image data under different processing conditions.
[0061]
Further, the auto setup engine 144 is for image recording that defines a gray balance or the like when recording an image on photographic paper by the laser printer unit 18 based on pre-scanned image data of a film image input from the input / output controller 134. The parameters are calculated and output simultaneously when outputting the recording image data (described later) to the laser printer unit 18.
[0062]
The input / output controller 134 is connected to the laser printer unit 18 via the I / F circuit 156. When the image data after image processing is used for recording an image on photographic paper, the image data subjected to image processing by the image processor unit 136 is recorded from the input / output controller 134 via the I / F circuit 156. The data is output to the laser printer unit 18. The auto setup engine 144 is connected to the personal computer 158. When image data after image processing is output to the outside as an image file, the image data subjected to image processing by the image processor unit 136 is output from the input / output controller 134 to the personal computer 158 via the auto setup engine 144. Is done.
[0063]
The personal computer 158 includes a CPU 160, a memory 162, a display 164, a keyboard 166, a hard disk 168, a CD-ROM driver 170, a transport control unit 172, an expansion slot 174, and an image compression / decompression unit 176, which are connected to a bus 178. Are connected to each other. The conveyance control unit 172 is connected to the film carrier 38 and controls conveyance of the photographic film 22 by the film carrier 38. When an APS film is set on the film carrier 38, information (for example, image recording size) read by the film carrier 38 from the magnetic layer of the APS film is input.
[0064]
Also, a driver (not shown) for reading / writing data from / to a storage medium such as a memory card and a communication control device for communicating with other information processing devices are connected via a personal computer 158 via an expansion slot 174. Connected to. When image data for output to the outside is input from the input / output controller 134, the image data is output to the outside (the driver, the communication control device, etc.) as an image file via the expansion slot 174. When file image data is input from the outside via the expansion slot 174, the input file image data is output to the input / output controller 134 via the auto setup engine 144. In this case, the input / output controller 134 outputs the input file image data to the selector 132.
[0065]
The image processing unit 16 outputs prescan image data or the like to the personal computer 158, and displays the film image read by the area CCD scanner 12 or the line CCD scanner 14 on the display 164 or records it on photographic paper. The image obtained in the above is estimated and displayed on the display 164, and when an operator instructs an image correction or the like via the keyboard 166, it can be reflected in the processing conditions of the image processing.
[0066]
(Configuration of laser printer unit and processor unit)
Next, the configuration of the laser printer unit 18 and the processor unit 20 will be described. FIG. 6 shows the configuration of the optical system of the exposure unit of the laser printer unit 18. The laser printer unit 18 includes three laser light sources, laser light sources 210R, 210G, and 210B. The laser light source 210R is composed of a semiconductor laser (LD) that emits laser light having an R wavelength. The laser light source 210G is composed of an LD and a wavelength conversion element (SHG) that converts the laser light emitted from the LD into a laser light having a half wavelength, and the laser light having a wavelength from SHG to G. The oscillation wavelength of the LD is determined so that is emitted. Similarly, the laser light source 210B is also composed of an LD and an SHG, and the oscillation wavelength of the LD is determined so that laser light having a wavelength of B is emitted from the SHG.
[0067]
A collimator lens 212 and an acousto-optic light modulation element (AOM) 214 are sequentially arranged on the laser light emission side of the laser light sources 210R, 210G, and 210B. The AOM 214 is arranged so that the incident laser light passes through the acoustooptic medium, and is connected to the AOM driver 216 (see FIG. 7). When a high frequency signal is input from the AOM driver 216, the AOM 214 Ultrasonic waves according to the high-frequency signal propagate in the optical medium, and the acousto-optic effect acts on the laser light transmitted through the acousto-optic medium to cause diffraction, and laser light having an intensity corresponding to the amplitude of the high-frequency signal is AOM 214. Is emitted as diffracted light.
[0068]
A polygon mirror 218 is disposed on the diffracted light exit side of the AOM 214, and the three laser beams having R, G, and B wavelengths respectively emitted as diffracted light from each AOM 214 are on the reflection surface of the polygon mirror 218. Irradiated to substantially the same position and reflected by the polygon mirror 218. An fθ lens 220 and a plane mirror 222 are disposed on the laser beam emission side of the polygon mirror 218, and the three laser beams reflected by the polygon mirror 218 pass through the fθ lens 220 and are reflected by the plane mirror 222. The photographic paper 224 is irradiated.
[0069]
FIG. 7 shows a schematic configuration of the electrical system of the laser printer unit 18 and the processor unit 20. The laser printer unit 18 includes a frame memory 230 that stores image data. The frame memory 230 is connected to the image processing unit 16 via the I / F circuit 232, and the recording image data input from the image processing unit 16 (R for each pixel of the image to be recorded on the printing paper 224, Image data representing G and B densities) is temporarily stored in the frame memory 230 via the I / F circuit 232. The frame memory 230 is connected to the exposure unit 236 via the D / A converter 234 and is also connected to the printer unit control circuit 238.
[0070]
The exposure unit 236 includes three laser light sources 210 including LD (and SHG) as described above, and also includes three AOMs 214 and AOM drivers 216, and a motor that rotates the polygon mirror 218 and the polygon mirror 218. A main scanning unit 240 is provided. The exposure unit 236 is connected to a printer unit control circuit 238, and the operation of each unit is controlled by the printer unit control circuit 238.
[0071]
When recording an image on the photographic paper 224, the printer unit control circuit 238 uses the image recording unit 16 to record an image represented by the recording image data on the photographic paper 224 by scanning exposure. Based on the parameters, various corrections are performed on the recording image data to generate scanning exposure image data, which is stored in the frame memory 230. Then, the polygon mirror 218 of the exposure unit 236 is rotated to emit laser light from the laser light sources 210R, 210G, and 210B, and the generated image data for scanning exposure is exposed from the frame memory 230 via the D / A converter 234. Output to the unit 236. As a result, the image data for scanning exposure is converted into an analog signal and input to the exposure unit 236.
[0072]
The AOM driver 216 changes the amplitude of the ultrasonic signal supplied to the AOM 214 according to the level of the input analog signal, and changes the intensity of the laser light emitted from the AOM 214 as diffracted light to the level of the analog signal (that is, photographic paper). 224, modulation is performed according to any one of R density, G density, and B density of each pixel of the image to be recorded. Accordingly, the three AOMs 214 emit R, G, and B laser beams whose intensity is modulated in accordance with the R, G, and B densities of the image to be recorded on the photographic paper 224, and these laser beams are emitted from the polygon mirror 218. The photographic paper 224 is irradiated through the fθ lens 220 and the mirror 222.
[0073]
As the polygon mirror 218 rotates, the irradiation position of each laser beam is scanned along the arrow B direction in FIG. 6 to perform main scanning, and the photographic paper 224 moves at a constant speed along the arrow C direction in FIG. Are sub-scanned with laser light, and an image is recorded on the photographic paper 224 by scanning exposure. The printing paper 224 on which an image is recorded by scanning exposure is sent to the processor unit 20.
[0074]
A printer unit driver 242 is connected to the printer unit control circuit 238. The printer unit driver 242 includes a fan 244 for blowing air to the exposure unit 236, and photographic paper stored in a magazine loaded in the laser printer unit. A magazine motor 246 for pulling out the magazine from the magazine is connected. The printer unit control circuit 238 is connected to a back print unit 248 that prints characters and the like on the back surface of the printing paper 224. The operations of the fan 244, magazine motor 246, and back print unit 248 are controlled by a printer unit control circuit 238.
[0075]
The printer control circuit 238 also includes a magazine sensor 250 that detects the size of the photographic paper stored in the magazine, and a magazine sensor 250 that stores unexposed photographic paper 224. The operator inputs various instructions. Are connected to the operation panel 252, a densitometer 254 for measuring the density of an image visualized by processing such as development in the processor unit 20, and a processor unit control circuit 256 of the processor unit 20.
[0076]
The processor unit control circuit 256 detects the passage of the photographic paper 224 conveyed through the photographic paper conveyance path in the machine body of the processor unit 20 and the detection of the liquid level positions of various processing liquids stored in the processing tank. Various sensors 258 for performing the above are connected.
[0077]
Further, the processor unit control circuit 256 includes a sorter 260 that sorts photographic paper discharged from the machine after processing such as development, into a predetermined group, a replenishment system 262 that replenishes the processing tank with replenisher, An automatic cleaning system 264 for cleaning rollers and the like is connected, and various pump / solenoids 268 are connected via a processor unit driver 266. The operation of the sorter 260, the replenishment system 262, the automatic cleaning system 264, and various pumps / solenoids 268 is controlled by the processor unit control circuit 256.
[0078]
(Structure of film carrier)
Next, the configuration of the film carrier 38 will be described with reference to FIG. 8 shows a state in which the film carrier 38 is set on the line CCD scanner 14 (however, in FIG. 8, the dimming filters 114C, 114M, 114Y, the light diffusion box 36, etc. are not shown). However, it is also possible to set the film carrier 38 in the area CCD scanner 12.
[0079]
The film carrier 38 includes a pair of conveying rollers 280 and 282 disposed on both sides with the optical axis L of light emitted from the light source 30 as the center. The conveying roller pair 280, 282 is rotated by the driving force of the motors 284, 286, respectively. As the conveying roller pair 280, 282 rotates, the photographic film 22 sandwiched between the conveying roller pair 280, 282 has an optical axis. Conveyed across L. The motors 284 and 286 are connected to the transport controller 172 (see also FIG. 5) via drivers 288 and 290. Further, at a position where the conveyance path of the photographic film 22 and the optical axis L intersect, a mask 292 that blocks light that is emitted from the light source 30 and transmits outside the image recording range of the photographic film 22 and that can change the light shielding range. Is arranged.
[0080]
The film carrier 38 and the conveyance control unit 172 correspond to the conveyance means described in claim 2.
[0081]
  (Function)
  Next, this firstComparative exampleAs a function of the above, a reading condition calculation process (FIG. 9) executed by the auto setup engine 144 of the image processing unit 16 and a film executed by the conveyance control unit 172 when reading the film image recorded on the photographic film 22 are performed. The image reading process (FIG. 10) will be described. In the following description, an example in which a film image is read by the line CCD scanner 14 on which the film carrier 38 is set will be described.
[0082]
In the reading condition calculation process, in step 400, the line CCD scanner 14 is notified of predetermined reading conditions when performing a prescan on the film image, and the photographic film is sent to the line CCD scanner 14 and the conveyance control unit 172. Instructing execution of pre-scanning on the film image recorded in 22. In the next step 402, it is determined whether pre-scan image data has been input. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 404, where it is determined whether pre-scan image data of all film images recorded on one photographic film has been input. If this determination is also negative, the process returns to step 402 and the determinations of steps 402 and 404 are repeated.
[0083]
On the other hand, in the film image reading process, it is determined in step 500 whether or not execution of pre-scan is instructed, and the process waits until the determination is affirmed. When execution of the pre-scan is instructed, the determination in step 500 is affirmed, and in the next step 502, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the film carrier 38 is suitable for the pre-scan. It is transported in a predetermined direction (hereinafter referred to as the forward direction for convenience) at a constant transport speed.
[0084]
In step 504, it is determined whether or not the film image has reached the film image reading position by the line CCD 116. If the determination is negative, it is determined in step 506 whether all film images recorded on one photographic film have been read. If this determination is also negative, the process returns to step 502 and steps 502 to 506 are repeated. If the determination in step 504 is affirmed, in step 508, the film image is read by the line CCD 116 of the line CCD scanner 14 in accordance with the reading condition at the time of pre-scan notified from the auto setup engine 144, and the image obtained by reading is read. The data is output to the image processing unit 16 as pre-scan image data.
[0085]
When the film image reaches the film image reading position by the line CCD 116, the above-described step 508 is repeated, so that the film image is sequentially from the front side in the forward direction of the photographic film (1, 2,. , N are assigned to each film image, and the image data obtained by the reading is sequentially output to the image processing unit 16 as pre-scan image data. Is done. As the reading conditions in this prescan, standard reading conditions that can accurately read a large number of film images (film images having a density within a predetermined range) are used.
[0086]
In the reading condition calculation process (FIG. 9), when pre-scan image data is input, the determination in step 402 is affirmed and the process proceeds to step 406. The pre-scan image data represents the pre-scan image data based on the input pre-scan image data. It is determined whether the density of the film image is outside a predetermined range.
[0087]
This determination is made, for example, with respect to the density value of the film image (for example, the minimum density and the average density), and an image having a standard density (such as a normal negative in a negative image) and an image having an extremely low density (over negative or super over negative in a negative image). And a threshold value corresponding to the boundary between the image density and the density value (for example, the maximum density and the average density) of the film image, and an image having an extremely high density (an under-negative in a negative image). Etc.) and a threshold value corresponding to the boundary with the threshold value is set, and various density values obtained from the pre-scan image data are compared with the threshold value. This step 406 corresponds to the determination means of the present invention.
[0088]
If the determination in step 406 is affirmative, it can be determined that the film image corresponding to the input prescanned image data can be read with high accuracy under the standard reading conditions notified in step 400 above. 408, and based on the input prescan image data, based on the feature values such as the average density of the film image, the scanning conditions for performing the fine scan on the same film image are calculated and correspond to the frame number. And stored in the RAM 148 or the like. This step 408 corresponds to the determining means of the present invention.
[0089]
In the next step 410, based on the input pre-scan image data, the exposure amount at the time of shooting the film image, the shooting light source type and other feature amounts are obtained, and based on the obtained feature amounts, the same film image is obtained. On the other hand, the processing conditions of the image processing for the fine scan image data obtained by performing the fine scan are calculated. In addition, the feature values obtained from pre-scanned image data sequentially input are sequentially compared to determine whether or not the data is a film image obtained by photographing a similar scene. The film images obtained by photographing a similar scene are the same or approximate. The processing conditions are calculated so as to satisfy the processing conditions. When the processing conditions are calculated, the calculated processing conditions are stored in the RAM 148 in association with the frame number, and the process returns to step 402.
[0090]
  On the other hand, if the determination in step 406 is affirmative, the density of the input film image is extremely high or extremely low, and the reading accuracy is low under the standard reading conditions notified in step 400 above. Therefore, it can be determined that re-pre-scan is necessary. For this reason, this firstComparative exampleIf the determination in step 406 is affirmative, then in order to accurately perform the pre-scan again for the film image, the reading condition at the time of re-pre-scan is calculated at step 412, and the calculated reading condition at the time of re-pre-scan is set. After storing in correspondence with the frame number, the process returns to step 402.
[0091]
Note that the reading conditions at the time of re-prescan are based on, for example, the maximum density and the minimum density of the film image to be re-pre-scanned, so that the accumulated charge of the line CCD 116 does not saturate at the time of re-pre-scan. It can be determined so that the amount of charge accumulated in each CCD cell is as large as possible. In addition, a film image to be re-pre-scanned is determined by separately setting a reading condition when biased toward a high density side with respect to a standard density and a reading condition when biased toward a low density side. Any reading condition may be selected depending on whether the density is higher or lower than the standard density. Alternatively, reading conditions may be determined in stages according to the density deviation amount with respect to the standard density, and the corresponding reading conditions may be selected.
[0092]
If prescan image data of all film images recorded on one photographic film 22 is input and the above-described processing is performed on all input prescan image data, the determination in step 404 is affirmative. Then, the process proceeds to step 420, and it is determined whether or not re-prescan is necessary based on whether or not there is a film image that requires re-prescan in one photographic film 22.
[0093]
If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 450, where the line CCD scanner 14 is notified of the reading conditions at the time of fine scanning for each film image calculated and stored in the RAM 148. The control unit 172 is instructed to execute fine scan. In the next step 452, the image processor 140 of the image processor unit 136 is notified of the processing conditions of the image processing for the fine scan image data of each film image that has been calculated and stored in the RAM 148.
[0094]
On the other hand, in the film image reading process (FIG. 10), when all the film images have been read, the determination in step 506 is affirmed. In the next step 510, it is determined whether or not execution of re-prescan is instructed. When the execution of fine scan is instructed as described above, the determination in step 510 is denied, and in step 530, the photographic film 22 is reversed by the film carrier 38 at a constant transport speed suitable for fine scan and in the reverse direction to the predetermined direction. Transport in the direction (referred to as the return direction).
[0095]
In the next step 532, it is determined whether or not the film image has reached the film image reading position by the line CCD 116. If the determination is negative, it is determined in step 534 whether all film images recorded on one photographic film have been read. If this determination is also negative, the process returns to step 530 and steps 530 to 534 are repeated. If the determination in step 532 is affirmative, in step 536, the line CCD 116 reads the film image in accordance with the reading conditions at the time of fine scanning notified from the auto setup engine 144, and the image data obtained by the reading is displayed as the fine scan image. The data is output to the image processing unit 16 as data.
[0096]
Therefore, when the re-prescan is not performed, as shown in FIG. 11A, as soon as the pre-scan for all the film images is completed, the line CCD 116 performs the forward direction in accordance with the notified reading condition during the fine scan. The film images are read in order from the end (in the order of frame numbers n, n−1,..., 1), and the obtained image data is output to the image processing unit 16 as fine scan image data. The fine scan image data of each film image input from the line CCD scanner 14 to the image processing unit 16 is an image corresponding to the processing condition calculated for each film image by the auto setup engine 144 in the image processor unit 136. Processed and output.
[0097]
By the way, when the determination in step 420 is affirmed in the reading condition calculation process (FIG. 9) (when re-prescanning is performed), the process proceeds to step 422, where the frame number of the film image to be rescanned and the reading condition ( The line CCD scanner 14 and the conveyance control unit 172 are notified of the frame number and reading conditions stored in the previous step 412, and the line CCD scanner 14 and the conveyance control unit 172 are re-established with respect to the film image corresponding to the notified frame number. Instructs execution of pre-scan.
[0098]
As a result, in the film image reading process (FIG. 10), the determination in step 510 is affirmed, the process proceeds to step 512, and the photographic film 22 is conveyed at high speed in the backward direction. In step 514, it is determined whether or not a film image corresponding to the notified frame number has reached the film image reading position by the line CCD 116. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 516, and it is determined whether or not reading of all the film images notified of the frame number has been completed. If this determination is also denied, the process returns to step 512 and steps 512 to 516 are repeated.
[0099]
If the determination in step 514 is affirmative, the conveyance speed of the photographic film 22 is changed to a conveyance speed suitable for prescanning, and then the process proceeds to step 518, where the re-prescan notified from the auto setup engine 144 by the line CCD 116. The film image is read according to the reading conditions at that time, and the image data obtained by the reading is output to the image processing unit 16 as re-prescan image data. Since the reading conditions at the time of the re-prescan are calculated based on the pre-scan image data obtained in the first pre-scan, the density of the film image to be re-pre-scanned is extremely high or extremely high. Even when it is low, the film image can be read with high accuracy.
[0100]
If the process of step 518 is performed, it will return to step 512 and will repeat step 512-516 until determination of step 516 is affirmed. If the determination in step 516 is affirmed, the film is transported again in a predetermined direction (forward direction) in step 520 to perform fine scan, and then the process proceeds to step 530 described above.
[0101]
  Therefore, this firstIn comparative exampleIf there is a film image that needs to be pre-scanned again, as shown in FIG. 11B, the film image (corresponding to the notified frame number) is conveyed while transporting the photographic film 22 in the backward direction. When the re-prescan for the re-prescan execution target film image) is performed by the line CCD 116 and the re-prescan for all the re-prescan execution target film images is completed, the photographic film 22 is conveyed in the forward direction.
[0102]
In the reading condition calculation process (FIG. 9), when execution of re-prescan is instructed (step 422), the process proceeds to step 424, and it is determined whether or not re-prescan image data is input. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 426, and it is determined whether or not re-prescan image data of all the film images for which the frame numbers have been previously notified have been input. If this determination is also negative, the process returns to step 424 and the determinations of steps 424 and 426 are repeated.
[0103]
When the re-prescan image data is input, the determination in step 424 is affirmed and the process proceeds to step 428. Based on the input re-prescan image data, reading when performing fine scan on the same film image The condition is calculated and stored in the RAM 148 or the like in association with the frame number. This step 428 also corresponds to the determining means of the present invention. As described above, the re-prescan allows accurate reading even when the density of the film image is extremely high or extremely low. Therefore, in step 428, the film is finely scanned based on the re-prescan image data. Reading conditions that can read an image with high accuracy are obtained.
[0104]
In the next step 430, based on the input re-prescan image data, the processing conditions of the image processing for the fine scan image data obtained by performing the fine scan on the same film image are calculated, and the calculated processing After the condition is associated with the frame number and stored in the RAM 148, the process returns to step 424.
[0105]
Then, when re-prescan image data of all panorama size film images is input and the processing of steps 428 and 430 is performed on all the input re-prescan image data, the determination of step 426 is affirmed. Then, the process proceeds to step 450, where fine scanning is performed on each film image as described above. Steps 400, 420, 422, and 450 correspond to the control means of the present invention.
[0106]
  The firstComparative exampleThen, when execution of re-prescan is instructed, re-pre-scan is performed while transporting the photographic film 22 in the backward direction. When the re-pre-scan for the instructed film image is completed, the photographic film 22 is once moved in the outward direction. After the conveyance, fine scanning was performed on each film image while conveying in the backward direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. In this case, among the film images for which re-prescan is instructed, the photograph is such that the film image recorded at the foremost side along the forward direction of the photographic film 22 is positioned at the film image reading position by the line CCD 116. Once the film 22 has been transported in the backward direction, it is directed to the instructed film image while being transported in the forward direction. Re-scanning may be performed, and then fine scanning may be performed on each film image while being conveyed in the backward direction. When execution of re-pre-scanning is instructed as illustrated in FIG. When the pre-scan is performed while conveying the photographic film 22 in the backward direction, and the pre-scan for the instructed film image is completed, the film film is further conveyed in the backward direction and then conveyed in the forward direction. Fine scanning may be performed.
[0107]
  [SecondComparative example]
  Next, the second of the present inventionComparative exampleWill be described. This secondComparative exampleIs the firstComparative exampleTherefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to the respective parts, and the description of the configuration is omitted.Comparative exampleAs a function of this secondComparative exampleRegarding the reading condition calculation process (FIG. 12) and the film image reading process (FIG. 13) according to FIG.Comparative exampleOnly different parts will be described.
[0108]
  As shown in FIG.Comparative exampleIn the reading condition calculation processing according to the above, when the density of the film image represented by the input prescan image data 406 is outside the predetermined range (when the determination in step 406 is affirmative), the process proceeds to step 414 and re-prescan is performed. In step 416, the frame number of the film image corresponding to the input prescanned image data is calculated as the frame number of the film image to be re-prescanned and the reading condition in step 416. The reading condition is notified to the line CCD scanner 14 and the conveyance control unit 172, and the line CCD scanner 14 and the conveyance control unit 172 are instructed to execute re-prescan of the film image having the frame number.
[0109]
  Thus, this secondComparative exampleIn the reading condition calculation processing according to the above, when it is determined that re-prescan is necessary for the film image corresponding to the pre-scan image data based on the input pre-scan image data, execution of the re-pre-scan is immediately instructed. This secondComparative exampleWhen the execution of re-prescan is instructed, the pre-scan for each film image is interrupted and re-pre-scan is performed as will be described later. Therefore, the determination in step 402 is affirmative even when re-pre-scan image data is input. Then, based on the input re-prescan image data, calculation of the reading conditions during fine scanning (step 408) and calculation of processing conditions for image processing (step 410) are performed.
[0110]
  On the other hand, this secondComparative exampleIn the film image reading process according to FIG. 13, as shown in FIG. 13, if the determination in step 504 is negative, it is determined in step 510 whether re-prescan is instructed. If this determination is negative, it is determined in step 506 whether all the film images recorded on one photographic film have been read. If this determination is also negative, the process returns to step 502. Repeat steps 502-506. Each time the determination in step 504 is affirmed, pre-scanning for each film image is sequentially performed in step 508. If the determination in step 510 is affirmative, execution of re-pre-scan is instructed in step 540 and thereafter. Re-prescan the film image.
[0111]
That is, in step 540, the frame number of the latest film image that has been pre-scanned in step 508 is stored, and in the next step 542, the photographic film 22 is conveyed at high speed in the backward direction. In the next step 544, it is determined whether or not the film image corresponding to the frame number notified from the auto setup engine 144 has arrived at the film image reading position by the line CCD 116 (the film image instructed to perform pre-scanning). To do. If the determination is negative, the process returns to step 542 and the conveyance of the photographic film 22 in the return path direction is continued.
[0112]
If the determination in step 544 is affirmative, the conveyance speed of the photographic film 22 is changed to a conveyance speed suitable for prescanning, and then the process proceeds to step 546, where the re-prescan notified from the auto setup engine 144 by the line CCD 116. The film image is read according to the reading conditions at that time, and the image data obtained by the reading is output to the image processing unit 16 as re-prescan image data. By this re-prescanning, even a film image having an extremely high density or extremely low density can be read with high accuracy.
[0113]
In the next step 548, the photographic film 22 is conveyed in the forward direction until the film image corresponding to the frame number stored in the previous step 540 (the latest film image that has been pre-scanned) reaches the film image reading position. Later, the process proceeds to step 506, and steps 502 to 506 are repeated again. Therefore, when execution of re-prescan for a film image that has already been pre-scanned is instructed, as shown in FIG. 11C, pre-scan for each film image is temporarily interrupted and execution of re-pre-scan is instructed. After performing the re-prescan on the film image, the pre-scan for each film image is continued. FIG. 11C shows a sequence in the case where execution of re-prescan is instructed for two film images as an example.
[0114]
  When the pre-scan for all film images is completed, the re-pre-scan for the film image instructed to execute the re-pre-scan is completed, and the execution of fine scan is instructed, the determination in step 506 is affirmed. , FirstComparative exampleIn the same manner as above, a fine scan is performed on each film image.
[0115]
  [ActualEmbodiment]
  Next, the present inventionThe fruitAn embodiment will be described. In addition,RealEmbodiment is firstComparative exampleAnd secondComparative exampleTherefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to the respective parts, and the description of the configuration is omitted.RealThe operation of the embodiment will be described.
[0116]
  RealIn the embodiment, the operator operates the keyboard 166 to determine whether or not to re-prescan a film image that is determined to require re-pre-scan, such as when the density is extremely high or extremely low. This is designated in advance. Whether or not to perform re-prescan for a film image that is determined to require re-prescan is determined by, for example, the required film image reading capability or the re-scan for film images that are determined to require re-pre-scan. In the case where pre-scanning is not performed, the operator makes a determination in consideration of the degree of image quality degradation when the film image is recorded on photographic paper by the laser printer unit 18.
[0117]
  When the operator designates whether or not re-prescan is performed via the keyboard 166, information indicating the specified content (information indicating whether or not re-prescan is performed on a film image determined to require re-prescan) ) Is stored in the RAM 148 of the auto setup engine 144. Thus, the keyboard 166 is claimed.1Corresponds to the selection means described in the above.
[0118]
  Next, referring to FIG.RealRegarding the reading condition calculation processing according to the embodiment, the firstComparative exampleOnly different parts will be described.RealIn the reading condition calculation processing according to the embodiment, when the density of the film image represented by the prescan image data is out of the predetermined range based on the input prescan image data (when the determination in step 406 is affirmative) The process proceeds to step 411, where it is determined whether or not re-pre-scan execution is not permitted based on information representing the contents designated by the operator stored in the RAM 148.
[0119]
  If the information stored in the RAM 148 indicates that the operator has designated that re-prescan is performed on a film image that is determined to require re-prescan, the determination in step 411 is performed. No, move to step 412Comparative exampleIn the same manner as described above, the reading condition at the time of re-pre-scanning is calculated and stored in the RAM 148 in correspondence with the frame number. In this case, after the pre-scan for each film image is completed, the film image for which re-pre-scan is determined to be necessary (film image for which the determination in step 406 is affirmed) is re-pressed under the reading condition calculated in step 412. A can is performed.
[0120]
  On the other hand, when the information stored in the RAM 148 indicates that the operator has designated that the re-prescan is not performed on the film image that is determined to require the re-prescan, step 411 is performed. Is affirmed and the routine proceeds to step 417. In step 418, based on the input prescan image data, the reading conditions for performing a fine scan on the film image corresponding to the prescan image data are estimated, and the estimated reading conditions are stored in the RAM 148. This step 418 is claimed.1This corresponds to the determining means described in 1.
[0121]
Note that the optimum reading conditions at the time of fine scanning are specifically estimated based on, for example, the reading conditions at the time of pre-scanning and the input pre-scanned image data, and the density of the estimated film image. It can be estimated from the concentration. Thereby, although the accuracy is lower than that in the case of performing re-prescanning, it is possible to obtain a reading condition capable of reading a film image with a certain degree of accuracy. After performing the process of step 418, the process proceeds to step 410, where the processing conditions for image processing are calculated and stored.
[0122]
  AlsoRealIn the embodiment, when the operator specifies that the re-prescan is not performed on the film image determined to require the re-pre-scan, the film image determined to require the re-pre-scan (the determination in step 406). The determination in step 420 is unconditionally denied regardless of the presence or absence of a film image for which is affirmed. Then, for a film image determined to require re-prescanning, fine scanning is performed under the reading conditions estimated in the previous step 418. This step 420 is claimed.1It corresponds to the control means described in.
[0123]
  in this way,RealIn the embodiment, when the operator designates that the re-prescan is not performed on the film image determined to require the re-pre-scan, the re-pre-scan is performed on the film image determined to require the re-pre-scan. First, since the fine scan is performed under the reading condition estimated from the prescan image data, it is determined that the represcan needs to be performed by the operator selecting whether to perform the represcan via the keyboard 166. It is possible to give priority to the improvement of the reading accuracy of a film image to be fine-scanned or to give priority to the film image reading ability.
[0124]
  The firstComparative exampleAnd secondComparative exampleThen, when there is a film image that is determined to require re-prescanning, fine scanning is performed on each film image after performing re-prescanning on the film image. When the film image determined to be re-pre-scanned reaches the film image reading position while transporting the photographic film in the forward or backward direction, the re-pre-scan (or re-pre-scan and Fine film) may be performed, and when a film image that has not been determined to require re-pre-scanning reaches the film image reading position, fine scanning may be performed on the film image.
[0125]
Further, the case where the present invention is applied to reading a film image in the line CCD scanner 14 has been described above, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is applied to reading a film image in the area CCD scanner 12. Needless to say.
[0126]
In the above description, the case where the reading condition calculation process is performed by the auto setup engine 144 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the auto setup engine 144 performs only the calculation of at least the reading condition and the processing condition of the image processing. Other processing may be performed by the personal computer 158 alone, or may be performed by the personal computer 158 and the auto setup engine 144.
[0127]
Further, in the above, the pre-scan and the fine scan are performed with the same CCD, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a pre-scan dedicated CCD and a fine scan dedicated CCD may be provided respectively.
[0128]
In the above description, the film image recorded on the photographic film 22 has been described as an example of the image to be read. However, the present invention is not limited to this and is recorded on a recording medium other than photographic film such as plain paper. The read image may be used as a reading target image.
[0129]
In the above description, the area CCD scanner 12 and the line CCD scanner 14 having different sizes of the photographic film to be read are provided as the scanner for reading the film image. Instead, film images of photographic films of various sizes are provided. May be provided (a line scanner is preferable).
[0130]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided determination means for determining whether or not it is necessary to perform the preliminary reading of the image again based on the result of the preliminary reading of the image. Preliminary reading is sequentially performed on each of the images, and each image is actually read under the reading conditions determined from the result of the preliminary reading, and there is an image that is determined to need to be read again by the determination unit.Only when it is selected to perform a second preliminary reading on the image via the selection means.The preliminary reading of the image is performed again under the reading conditions different from the previous time, and then the main reading of the image is performed under the reading conditions determined by the determining unit from the result of the preliminary scanning again.At the same time, when it is selected not to perform preliminary scanning again on the image via the selection unit, and there is an image that is determined to be necessary to perform preliminary scanning again, preliminary scanning is performed on the image. The reading conditions for performing the actual reading of the image are determined based on the estimation based on the resultAs a result, each image can be read with high accuracy even if the image to be read contains images with significantly different proper reading conditions.At the same time, it is possible to give priority to improving the reading accuracy at the time of actual reading of an image that is determined to need to be pre-readed again, or to give priority to maintaining the number of read images per unit time. When it is selected not to perform preliminary reading, it is possible to improve the reading accuracy at the time of actual reading of the image to some extent without causing a decrease in the number of read images per unit time., Has an excellent effect.
[0131]
  In the invention of claim 2, in the invention of claim 1, it is determined that the photographic film is transported in a predetermined direction so that the preliminary reading for each of the plurality of film images is sequentially performed, and the preliminary reading needs to be performed again. If there is a film image and it is selected that preliminary reading is to be performed again via the selecting means, a plurality of film images are determined when it is determined that there is a film image that is determined to need to be pre-readed again. The pre-reading for each of the film images is interrupted and the photographic film is conveyed in the opposite direction to cause the pre-reading of the film image again, or after the pre-reading for each of the plurality of film images is completed, the photographic film In the opposite direction to cause the film image to be pre-read again. , It is possible to shorten the time required for preliminary reading of the film image, an effect that.
[0132]
  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, based on the result of the preliminary reading of the image by the reading means, the processing conditions for the image processing on the image data obtained by performing the main reading of the image are also determined. Thus, in addition to the above-described effects, there is an effect that the image processing for the result of the main image reading can be completed in a short time.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a digital laboratory system according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of an optical system of an area CCD scanner.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electric system of an area CCD scanner.
FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of an optical system of a line CCD scanner.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image processing unit.
FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram of an optical system of an exposure unit of a laser printer unit.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an electrical system of a laser printer unit and a processor unit.
FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram of a film carrier.
FIG. 9Comparative example6 is a flowchart showing a reading condition calculation process according to the above.
FIG. 10 FirstComparative exampleIt is a flowchart which shows the film image reading process which concerns on.
FIGS. 11A and 11B show an example of a photographic film transport and film image reading sequence when there is no frame that requires re-prescanning, and FIGS. It is a timing chart showing each.
FIG. 12Comparative example6 is a flowchart showing a reading condition calculation process according to the above.
FIG. 13Comparative exampleIt is a flowchart which shows the film image reading process which concerns on.
FIG. 14Of the present inventionIt is a flowchart which shows the reading condition calculation process which concerns on embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
        12 area CCD scanner
        14 line CCD scanner
        16 Image processing unit
        22 Photo film
        38 film carrier
      144 Auto setup engine
      172 Transport control unit

Claims (3)

Reading means for reading an image;
A determining unit that determines a reading condition when performing the main reading of the image based on a result of the image reading performed by the reading unit;
A determination unit that determines whether or not it is necessary to perform the preliminary reading of the image again based on a result of the preliminary reading of the image by the reading unit;
A selection means for selecting whether or not to perform preliminary scanning again on the image;
The reading unit sequentially performs preliminary reading on each of a plurality of images, and causes each image to be read under the reading conditions determined by the determining unit based on the preliminary reading result, and the determination unit performs preliminary reading. Ri is Yes determination image and it is necessary to perform again, and only when carrying out the preliminary reading again through the selection means is selected, again row at different reading condition the preliminary reading the previous for the image Control means for performing the main reading of the image under the reading conditions determined by the determining means from the result of the preliminary reading again.
Equipped with a,
The determination unit is selected not to perform preliminary reading again for the image via the selection unit, and when there is an image determined to need to perform preliminary reading again by the determination unit, A reading condition for performing the main reading of the image is determined by estimation based on a result of performing the preliminary reading on the image.
An image reading apparatus. The plurality of images are a plurality of film images recorded in order on a long photographic film,
It further comprises transport means for transporting the photographic film,
It said control means, by conveying the photographic film in a predetermined direction by the conveying means to perform the preliminary reading for each of the plurality of film images in order, Ri determined to be a film image and it is necessary to perform the preliminary reading again Yes, and If it is selected to perform preliminary reading again via the selection means, it is determined for each of the plurality of film images when it is determined that there is a film image determined to be required to perform preliminary reading again. The preliminary reading is interrupted, and the photographic film is conveyed in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction to perform the preliminary reading again for the film image, or after the preliminary reading for each of the plurality of film images is completed, The film image is conveyed in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction so that the preliminary image can be read again. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1. The determination unit also determines a processing condition of image processing for image data obtained by performing the main reading of the image based on a result of the image reading performed by the reading unit. The image reading apparatus according to 1.

Images