Color Image Forming Optical Writing Timing for Color Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
In color image forming apparatuses, fluctuations in light amount due to changes in image formation conditions cause shifts in write start timing, leading to color shifts and deteriorated image quality.
Innovation Solution
A color image forming apparatus with a synchronization detector and circuitry to correct detection shifts by adjusting write start timing, using a memory to store light amount data and calculate detection-shift correction values to align timing accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the light amount of the beam changes according to image formation conditions, then the current magnitude through the light detection sensor changes, but the write start timing shifts causing color shift
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by detecting the actual light amount incident on the synchronization detection sensor and using this detection result to calculate and apply a detection-shift correction value. The light detection sensor continuously monitors beam light amount, and when changes are detected, the system automatically adjusts write start timing based on pre-stored detection-shift characteristic values, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that maintains timing precision despite light amount fluctuations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by storing multiple detection-shift characteristic values corresponding to different light amount conditions in memory. When the light amount changes, the system selects or calculates the appropriate correction value from these stored parameters. This allows the system to adapt to varying light conditions by changing the timing parameter based on pre-characterized detection-shift values for different light levels.
2Productivity
If the light amount fluctuates due to productivity or temperature changes, then the detection waveform changes, but color shift occurs in color machines
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring light amount changes and automatically compensating for their effects. When light amount fluctuates due to productivity changes or temperature variations, the light detection sensor detects these changes, and the system applies appropriate detection-shift correction values to maintain consistent write start timing, thereby ensuring color tone consistency despite productivity-related light amount variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a commercially available photo IC with slit and cover glass at low cost to achieve stable and accurate detection. This inexpensive commercial component provides reliable light amount detection capability without requiring complex custom-designed sensors, making the solution cost-effective while maintaining reliability for productivity-related light fluctuations.
3Measurement precision
If a photo IC with slit and cover glass is used to improve detection accuracy, then detection stability improves, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent explicitly adopts a commercially available photo IC with slit and cover glass that can be used at low cost. This commercial off-the-shelf component provides improved and stabilized detection accuracy without requiring expensive custom manufacturing. The solution leverages readily available components to achieve high detection precision while maintaining cost-effectiveness in mass production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a universal commercial photo IC component that can be applied across different image formation conditions and machine types. This multi-functional component handles various detection scenarios (different light amounts, temperatures, productivity levels) with a single standardized part, avoiding the need for multiple specialized sensors and reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
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
The solution effectively corrects color shifts and improves image quality by precisely adjusting write start timing, ensuring high-quality color reproduction.
Implementation Method 1
The light detection sensor includes a photodiode, and detects a minute current change using an amplifier and a gain resistance. The light detection sensor can determine the presence or absence of a beam input by the current change.
Implementation Method 2
The light detection sensor includes a photodiode, and detects a minute current change using an amplifier and a gain resistance.
Implementation Method 3
The light detection sensor includes a photodiode, and detects a minute current change using an amplifier and a gain resistance.
Data Source
AI summary
A color image forming apparatus includes a photoconductor on which an image is formed; an optical writing device to expose the photoconductor with light, the optical writing device including: a light emitter to emit light; a deflector including a multifaceted reflector rotationally driven to deflect the light emitted from the light emitter to scan the photoconductor with the light in a scanning direction; a synchronization detector to detect a write start timing of the light to be irradiated onto the photoconductor from the deflector; circuitry configured to: control the light emitter to emit light; and correct a detection shift of the synchronization detector generated by a fluctuation of a light amount of the light incident on the synchronization detector; and adjust the write start timing to correct a color shift.