Correct Answer Image Generation for Print Verification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing printing systems face challenges in accurately generating correct answer images for verification due to defects like streaks caused by paper dust, which can lead to incorrect detection of print defects, and not all defects can be detected by conventional algorithms.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus with a verification unit that scans printed images and compares them to preregistered correct answer images, including an acquisition unit for candidate images and a detection unit to exclude defective images, ensuring accurate generation of correct answer images by superimposing and averaging multiple images to minimize variations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If images are acquired for generating correct answer images, then the verification process can proceed, but streaks may occur due to paper dust on the scan sensor causing defective images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of correct answer image generationVSAvoidstreaks caused by paper dust
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring multiple candidate correct answer images before the actual verification process. By preparing multiple candidate images in advance and selecting the best one, the system prevents the harmful effect of streaks caused by paper dust during the critical verification phase. The candidate images are acquired and stored beforehand, allowing selection of a defect-free image for verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of image selection by evaluating multiple candidate images based on specific criteria (such as presence of streaks, dust, or other defects). Instead of using a single predetermined correct answer image, the system varies the selection among multiple candidates based on their quality parameters, thereby avoiding images with streaks or other defects that would compromise verification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional defect detection algorithms are used, then processing is simple, but not all defects can be detected leading to defective images being included in candidate images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of defect detectionVSAvoiddefect detection completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial or excessive action by implementing multiple stages of defect detection. First, conventional defect detection algorithms are used for basic filtering. Then, additional detection methods are applied to candidate images to identify subtle defects that conventional algorithms might miss. This multi-stage approach ensures comprehensive defect detection while maintaining reasonable processing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using the results of defect detection to iteratively refine the selection of correct answer images. Detected defects provide feedback that guides the selection process, allowing the system to exclude images with detected defects and select only those that pass all detection criteria. This feedback mechanism ensures high precision in defect detection while maintaining systematic processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If multiple candidate images are acquired and processed, then accuracy of correct answer image generation improves, but processing time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of correct answer image selectionVSAvoidtime for acquiring and processing candidate images
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring multiple candidate correct answer images before the actual verification process. By preparing multiple candidate images in advance and selecting the best one, the system prevents the harmful effect of streaks caused by paper dust during the critical verification phase. The candidate images are acquired and stored beforehand, allowing selection of a defect-free image for verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of image selection by evaluating multiple candidate images based on specific criteria (such as presence of streaks, dust, or other defects). Instead of using a single predetermined correct answer image, the system varies the selection among multiple candidates based on their quality parameters, thereby avoiding images with streaks or other defects that would compromise verification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11551343B2Apparatus, method, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2023.01.10 CANON KK
  • US11551343B2 patent drawing
  • US11551343B2 patent drawing
  • US11551343B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus acquires a plurality of candidate correct answer images for generating a correct answer image that is used for image quality evaluation, and detects a candidate correct answer image to be excluded from the acquired plurality of candidate correct answer images, based on differences between the acquired plurality of candidate correct answer images.