Color Patch Inspection via Pixel Variance Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing color inspection systems require multiple color patches for accurate colorimetry, which is inefficient and prone to errors, especially in environments where color consistency is challenging due to apparatus idiosyncrasies and environmental fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A color processing apparatus that determines color patch failures based on pixel value variance information from a single scanned image, eliminating the need for additional color patches by calculating and analyzing pixel value distributions to identify defects such as taint or streaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple color patches are used for accurate colorimetry, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for colorimetry from the scanned image by analyzing pixel value distributions in specific regions, eliminating the need for multiple separate color patches. The system extracts color data from a single patch by examining the statistical characteristics of pixel values within that patch.
Solution Approach 2:
A single color patch is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides both the color reference for measurement and the statistical data needed for quality assessment. The patch region serves dual purposes as both a color standard and a test area for detecting printing defects.
2Measurement precision
If multiple color patches are used for accurate colorimetry, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of pixel value distributions during the scanning process itself, rather than requiring separate inspection steps. By pre-calculating statistical parameters from the scanned image data, the system eliminates subsequent manual verification steps and accelerates the overall inspection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous processing by performing colorimetry measurements and quality assessments simultaneously in a single scanning operation. The system continuously analyzes pixel value distributions without interruption, eliminating idle time between multiple patch measurements.
3Reliability
If conventional color inspection methods are used, then reliability is maintained through multiple patches, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification by automatically analyzing pixel value distributions to detect printing defects such as taint and streaks. The inspection apparatus autonomously identifies and reports quality issues without requiring manual intervention or complex operational procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors pixel value variations and provides real-time information about color consistency and defect detection. This feedback loop enables automatic adjustment and maintains reliability while simplifying operation through automated decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
A color processing apparatus includes circuitry that obtains a color patch scanned image acquired by scanning a color patch, acquires a pixel value of the color patch scanned image, calculates pixel value variance information indicating a variance of the pixel values based on the acquired pixel values, and determines whether or not the color patch scanned image is defective based on the pixel value variance information.