Color Printer Registration Control via Sensor-Based Deviation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for reducing register errors in multicolor printing are either imprecise and labor-intensive or require expensive, high-resolution optical sensors, limiting the ability to produce high-quality prints with minimal registration errors.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a control field with a predetermined pattern printed on the substrate, where at least one color value is determined using a color value sensor, and a reference field with a predetermined pattern provides a target color value independent of register errors, allowing for precise control signal generation to correct register errors without the need for high-resolution sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual visual determination of registration error is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the printer's own color sensor to automatically measure registration errors by detecting control marks printed on the substrate. The control unit processes the sensor signals to determine registration deviations, enabling the system to self-diagnose and self-correct without external intervention or complex additional measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated optical sensing system. The color sensor detects control marks and converts their positions into electrical signals, which the control unit then processes to calculate registration errors, substituting human visual judgment with automated optical-electrical conversion and computational analysis.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution optical sensors are used to automatically determine registration error, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a relatively simple color sensor instead of expensive high-resolution optical sensors. The system uses standard components already present in many printers (color sensors for tone value control) rather than investing in specialized, costly measurement equipment, achieving adequate measurement precision with simpler, more affordable technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The color sensor serves multiple functions: it measures both the tone values of printed areas and the positions of control marks for registration detection. By making the sensor multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate specialized measurement sensors, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
3Measurement precision
If specialized high-resolution sensors are used for registration error detection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs registration error detection and correction without requiring operator intervention. The control unit processes sensor signals, calculates registration deviations, and adjusts printing parameters autonomously, making the system easy to operate while maintaining high measurement precision through automated multi-point detection.
4Measurement precision
If control marks are printed at various points across the printed format, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the printing area into multiple zones with control marks positioned at different locations (leading edge, trailing edge, and intermediate positions). This segmentation allows registration errors to be detected at multiple points, providing comprehensive measurement precision while using simple control mark patterns that don't require complex sensor systems.
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
This approach enables accurate registration of color separations, reducing register errors and improving print quality without the need for additional sensors, utilizing existing color value sensors in printers and copiers.
Implementation Method 1
a color sensor determines at least one color value of the control field
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling a color printer (10), wherein a color separation of a first color and a color separation of a second color are printed on the printing material (12) for generating a print image (18). Furthermore, at least one control field (20) is printed using a preset pattern of the first and second color. Utilizing a color value sensor (22), the total color value of the control field (20) and a target color value of a register-independent reference field (26) are measured. Furthermore, a deviation between the measured color value and the target color value is detected, and depending on the deviation, a control signal for correcting the register error between the two color separations is generated.