Color Correction Apparatus for Image Forming Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional color correction processes for image forming apparatuses are inefficient as they require sequential correction of lower and upper layer colors, leading to prolonged processing times and reduced productivity.

Innovation Solution

A color correction apparatus that obtains first and second color information from a recording medium and estimates correction values for the second color based on the influence of correcting the first color, allowing simultaneous correction of both layers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If sequential correction of lower and upper layer colors is performed, then color accuracy is improved, but processing time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor accuracyVSAvoidprocessing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent calculates and stores correction values for both lower and upper layer colors in advance, before actual color correction is needed. When color correction is required, the pre-calculated values are directly applied, eliminating the need for sequential processing. This preliminary calculation approach maintains color accuracy while dramatically reducing processing time and improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If sequential correction process is used, then color stability is maintained, but processing time is prolonged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor stabilityVSAvoidwaiting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Correction values for both lower and upper layer colors are calculated and stored in advance. When color correction is needed, these pre-calculated values are immediately applied without waiting for sequential processing, thereby maintaining color stability while eliminating waiting time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a copy of the correction calculation process by pre-computing correction values for various color conditions and storing them in a lookup table. During actual operation, the system copies/applies the appropriate pre-computed values based on measured color conditions, avoiding repeated sequential calculations and reducing processing time while maintaining color stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS11968346B2Color correction apparatus, image forming apparatus, method of controlling color correction apparatus, and non-transitory recording medium storing computer readable program
Publication Date: 2024.04.23 KONICA MINOLTA INC
  • US11968346B2 patent drawing
  • US11968346B2 patent drawing
  • US11968346B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A color correction apparatus has: an obtaining unit that obtains first color information of a first image formed by a first color formed on a recording medium and second color information of a second image formed by a second color superimposed on the first color formed on the recording medium; and a correction unit that finds a correction value for the second color by estimating color information of the second color based on the first color information and the second color information, the color information of the second color being varied due to an influence in correcting the first color information to a first target value of the first color.