Color Image Forming Apparatus Calibration Queue Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Color image forming apparatuses face challenges in producing uniform output quality due to variations in output characteristics, which are exacerbated by calibration processes that interfere with network-based print and facsimile functions, leading to delayed or rejected print commands.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes calibration means to set predetermined image output characteristics and control means to determine if a calibration process is ongoing, allowing image forming data to be created and stored without interfering with ongoing calibration, enabling image formation to start only after calibration completion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If calibration processing is carried out to correct printing characteristics, then output quality uniformity is improved, but printing processing is retarded because the apparatus cannot accept new print commands during calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration processing is executed as a preliminary action before the apparatus accepts network print commands. The control means determines that calibration is in progress and prevents new print commands from being accepted during this period, ensuring that calibration completes without interruption and establishing a stable baseline for subsequent printing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating states of the apparatus are segmented into distinct calibration mode and normal printing mode. The control means manages state transitions between these modes, allowing calibration to complete fully before switching to normal print command acceptance, thereby preventing interference between calibration and printing processes.
2Productivity
If the apparatus accepts print commands during calibration, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates because calibration cannot complete accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The control means applies preliminary anti-action by detecting when calibration is in progress and proactively preventing new print commands from being accepted. This preemptive measure ensures that no print commands interfere with the calibration process, protecting measurement precision before interference can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The control means continuously monitors the calibration status and provides feedback control by comparing the current state with the calibration progress. When calibration is detected as in progress, the control means automatically rejects new print commands, creating a closed-loop control system that protects calibration accuracy.
3Manufacturing precision
If calibration is executed to correct variations in output characteristics, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time occurs due to rejected or delayed print commands
Solution Approach 1:
Calibration is executed as a preliminary action during manufacturing or maintenance periods when the apparatus is not actively processing print commands. By completing calibration beforehand, the apparatus establishes consistent printing characteristics before normal operations begin, preventing time loss during production.
Solution Approach 2:
Calibration is performed periodically at scheduled intervals rather than continuously interrupting print operations. The control means manages periodic calibration cycles, allowing the apparatus to maintain precision through regular calibration while minimizing disruption to normal printing workflows.
Data Source
AI summary
A color image forming apparatus and an image output method capable of producing a PDL output without interfering with the execution of a calibration procedure is provided. A main controller rasterizes PDL data from a network on a DRAM as image data. The main controller determines whether or not a calibration procedure is being executed. If it is determined that the calibration procedure is being executed, a production of a PDL image output is put in a queue until the calibration procedure is completed. If it is determined that the calibration procedure is not being executed, the image data on the DRAM is transferred to a printer portion at an appropriate timing so that the printer portion may produce a printed page of the image data.