Distributed Image Inspection Reference Data Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

In image forming systems, generating reference data for image abnormality inspection is inefficient, particularly in distributed printing systems where multiple image forming apparatuses are involved, leading to delays in starting inspections and potential abnormal image printing due to sequential processing from paper feeding to reading.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a distributed processing system where image forming apparatuses generate reference data concurrently with output processing, with one or more apparatuses determining which apparatus should generate reference data based on available resources and apparatus information, allowing for efficient sharing of hardware resources and reducing downtime.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If reference data is generated sequentially after paper feeding in a single image forming apparatus, then the inspection process is simple, but the processing time increases and inspection efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinspection process complexityVSAvoidprocessing time

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the reference data generation task into segments that can be processed by multiple image forming apparatuses simultaneously. Each apparatus processes a portion of the original image data to generate reference data, enabling parallel processing and reducing overall processing time while maintaining inspection quality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary generation of reference data by image forming apparatuses before the actual inspection process begins. This allows the inspection to start immediately without waiting for reference data generation, thereby reducing processing time and improving inspection efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If reference data generation is performed by one image forming apparatus only, then the system is simple to manage, but the productivity and inspection speed are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem management complexityVSAvoidinspection speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the reference data generation capabilities of multiple image forming apparatuses into a coordinated system. The apparatuses work together to generate reference data in parallel, combining their processing power to achieve faster inspection speeds while maintaining manageable system complexity through centralized coordination

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes each image forming apparatus multi-functional by enabling them to both generate reference data and perform inspection tasks. This universality allows the system to dynamically allocate tasks across apparatuses, improving overall productivity while maintaining flexibility in system management

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If distributed processing is implemented across multiple image forming apparatuses, then the processing efficiency improves, but the device complexity and coordination requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidsystem coordination complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a control server as an intermediary that coordinates the distributed processing across multiple image forming apparatuses. The control server manages task allocation, data sharing, and synchronization, enabling efficient parallel processing while reducing the complexity burden on individual apparatuses through centralized mediation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If reference data generation starts after paper feeding, then the sequential process is simple to implement, but the downtime increases and inspection timing is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocess implementation simplicityVSAvoiddowntime

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables continuous useful action by having image forming apparatuses generate reference data during idle periods or in parallel with other operations. This ensures that reference data is always available when needed, eliminating downtime and maintaining continuous productive operation throughout the inspection process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS10607336B2Image forming systems and non-transitory recording medium storing a computer-readable program inspecting output image by distributed processing

Publication Date: 2020.03.31 KONICA MINOLTA INC

AI summary

An image forming system in which distributed processing of a job is performed by a plurality of image forming apparatuses and each of the image forming apparatuses inspects an output image formed on paper by distributed processing. Among the image forming apparatuses which perform distributed processing, one or more image forming apparatuses generate data for abnormal image detection which is required to inspect the output image in the image forming apparatuses to perform the distributed processing.