Adaptive Density Mark Pattern for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face inefficiencies in density correction processes, requiring multiple steps and taking significant time, especially when density variations are significant, leading to reduced printing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system that includes a forming unit, an acquisition unit for factor information, a determination unit to set the number of density marks, a control unit to provide image data for patterns with varying densities, a detection unit to assess image density, and a correction unit to adjust densities based on detected values, allowing for efficient density correction by adapting the number of marks according to factor information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a detailed pattern with many density marks is transferred onto the recording medium to accurately detect density variations, then measurement precision is improved, but processing time increases and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pattern complexity adaptive rather than fixed. The determination unit dynamically selects between a simple pattern and a detailed pattern based on detected factor information (toner usage amount, temperature, time). This dynamic adaptation allows the system to use only the necessary measurement precision for each situation, avoiding unnecessary processing steps when simple patterns suffice, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of pattern complexity based on factor information. When factor information indicates significant density variation (e.g., high toner usage, extreme temperatures), the system transitions from using a simple pattern to a detailed pattern. This parameter change allows the system to optimize between measurement precision and processing time by adjusting pattern complexity according to actual operating conditions
2Reliability
If multiple processing steps including simple pattern transfer and detailed pattern transfer are performed indiscriminately, then comprehensive density correction is achieved, but device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the density correction process into two distinct phases: a first density correction using a simple pattern, and a second density correction using a detailed pattern. The determination unit acts as a gatekeeper, deciding whether to proceed to the second phase based on factor information. This segmentation allows comprehensive correction when needed while avoiding unnecessary complex processing steps, thus reducing overall system complexity and processing time while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs a preliminary density correction using a simple pattern before determining whether detailed pattern correction is necessary. This preliminary action provides an initial correction that may be sufficient in many cases, and only when factor information indicates significant variations does the system proceed to the more comprehensive detailed pattern correction. This approach reduces unnecessary processing steps while ensuring complete correction when required
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables flexible and efficient density correction by determining the appropriate number of marks based on factor information, such as toner usage, temperature, and time, allowing for precise measurement and adjustment, thereby improving printing efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a detection unit that detects a density of the image formed on the target by the forming unit in relation to the pattern
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming system, image forming apparatus, and method of correcting image density are provided. The system includes a forming unit that forms an image; an acquisition unit that acquires factor information corresponding to a factor which is capable of causing variations in density of the image; a first determination unit that determines a number of marks in accordance with the factor information; a control unit that provides the forming unit with, as the image data, data pertaining to a pattern comprising a plurality of density marks which are different from each other in density and which are equal in number to the number of marks; a detection unit that detects a density of the image formed on the target by the forming unit in relation to the pattern; and a correction unit that corrects the density of the image in accordance with a result of the detection.