Backup Roller Sheet Flutter Suppression for Image Density Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatus face measurement errors due to sheet fluttering, which causes variations in the distance between measuring means and the sheet, leading to inaccuracies in image quality adjustment.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus is designed with a backup roller to convey the sheet while pressing it toward a measuring unit, allowing for controlled measurement of reflected light from multiple positions, generating profile data to stabilize image quality by compensating for sheet fluttering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sheet is conveyed without pressing during measurement, then the conveyance is simple and fast, but the sheet fluttering causes distance variation and measurement error
Solution Approach 1:
A pressing member is introduced as an intermediary component between the sheet and the measuring means. This pressing member contacts the sheet surface and applies pressure to suppress fluttering, thereby stabilizing the distance between the sheet and measuring means without requiring complex active control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement process is segmented into multiple measurement points along the sheet conveyance direction. By measuring at multiple positions and combining the results, the system achieves comprehensive image density measurement while maintaining simplicity at each individual measurement point
2Measurement precision
If the sheet fluttering is suppressed by pressing, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member is designed to automatically follow the sheet surface contour and apply pressure adaptively without requiring external control signals. The pressing member itself performs the fluttering suppression function through its mechanical design, eliminating the need for complex active control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member serves as a mechanical intermediary that translates the need for fluttering suppression into simple mechanical contact and pressure application, avoiding the complexity of electronic control systems while achieving the desired measurement stability
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between measuring means and sheet is varied, then the measurement covers different positions, but the measurement accuracy decreases due to fluttering
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is divided into multiple discrete measurement points along the sheet conveyance direction. The measuring means sequentially measures at each point while the pressing member maintains sheet stability, achieving comprehensive position coverage without sacrificing accuracy at any individual point
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement is performed periodically at multiple positions as the sheet is conveyed through the measurement region. The pressing member continuously suppresses fluttering during this periodic measurement process, ensuring accuracy is maintained across all measurement positions
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 solution enhances the accuracy of image density measurement and adjustment, ensuring stable image quality by minimizing the impact of sheet fluttering on measurement results.
Implementation Method 1
a measuring unit configured to measure reflected light from the sheet
Implementation Method 2
a backup roller configured to convey the sheet while pressing the sheet toward the measuring unit
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit configured to form an image on a sheet, and a measuring unit configured to measure reflected light from the sheet, a backup roller configured to convey the sheet while pressing the sheet toward the measuring unit, and a generating unit configured to control the backup roller to convey the sheet, control the measuring unit to measure the reflected light from the sheet, and generate profile data corresponding to measurement results of the reflected light from a plurality of positions in a direction in which the sheet is conveyed.