Color Misregistration Detection and Correction in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electrophotographic image forming apparatuses, power interruptions can lead to incorrect data storage during color misregistration correction, resulting in altered color tones in output images due to incorrect relative positioning of color images.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a detection unit for pattern images, a controller to form and correct image forming positions based on detected misregistration, and a storage unit to store data, with mechanisms to form alternative pattern images in case of data errors, ensuring accurate color registration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If color misregistration correction control is executed by storing data in a storage device, then the relative positions of images of different colors can be corrected, but if power supply is stopped during data writing, incorrect data may be stored causing color taste changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification by detecting pattern images and calculating color misregistration amounts before finalizing storage. The controller checks whether detected positions match expected positions and whether calculated amounts are within valid ranges, preventing incorrect data from being stored due to power interruptions during the preparation phase
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring the detection results and comparing them against expected values. The controller uses feedback from position detection and amount calculation to verify data integrity before storage, and can detect and correct errors after power resumption by re-detecting pattern images
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the system stores color misregistration correction data in non-volatile memory, then data can be retained after power off, but the writing process is vulnerable to power interruptions causing incorrect data storage
Solution Approach 1:
The system completes all detection, calculation, and verification operations in volatile memory before initiating storage to non-volatile memory. This preliminary preparation ensures that only fully verified correct data is written, and the writing process itself is minimized to reduce vulnerability to power interruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification by automatically checking detection results against expected values and validating calculated misregistration amounts. This self-service validation mechanism ensures data integrity without requiring external intervention, and can automatically recover and correct errors after power interruptions
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a plurality of image forming units configured to form images, an image bearing member, a detection unit configured to detect a pattern image formed on the image bearing member, the pattern image being used for detecting a color misregistration, a controller configured to control the plurality of image forming units to form a plurality of first pattern images, each having a different color, and control the detection unit to detect the color misregistration, and a storage unit configured to store data on the color misregistration, wherein the controller corrects an image forming position based on the stored data, and wherein in a case where an error is detected in the data, the controller controls the plurality of image forming units to form a plurality of second pattern images, different form the plurality of first pattern images, before the plurality of first pattern images is formed.