Document scanning system

A system for scanning a document positioned on a flat support and generating electrical signals representing the observed image information. Means are provided for scanning an elongated beam of illuminating light across the document from end to end and simultaneously imaging the illuminated region upon a line of photodetectors. The photodetectors are spaced apart for viewing different portions of the imaged strip. An image shifting arrangement shifts the image in synchronism with the document scan, so that all portions of the imaged document are viewed at one time or another by one of the photocells comprising the photodetector array. A field flattening arrangement operates in synchronism with document scanning so as to provide continuous focusing adjustment. The electrical signals which are generated by the system are suitable for controlling an ink jet printer or other electrically operated dot matrix recorder.