Dual Detection System for Positional Deviation Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately correcting positional deviations in color images due to changes in the intermediate transfer member and toner cartridge over time, leading to deteriorated image quality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dual detection system using sensors that detect both normal and diffuse reflected light, with each sensor configured to operate independently to reduce errors caused by surface changes and toner density variations, allowing for accurate positional deviation correction by averaging detection results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single detection method (normal reflected light or diffuse reflected light) is used to detect positional deviation, then the detection system is simple, but the detection accuracy deteriorates due to surface changes and toner density variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two different detection methods (normal reflected light detection and diffuse reflected light detection) into a single integrated detection system. The light receiving element is configured to receive both types of reflected light simultaneously, and the control unit processes both detection results to calculate positional deviation. This merging approach allows the system to leverage the advantages of both methods while compensating for their individual weaknesses, thereby improving detection accuracy without requiring separate independent detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameters by using two different light reception directions (normal reflected light at one angle and diffuse reflected light at another angle). The control unit dynamically adjusts the weighting or combination of these two detection signals based on the detected values, effectively changing the detection parameters to optimize accuracy under varying conditions such as surface changes and toner density variations.
2Measurement precision
If only normal reflected light is detected, then the detection setup is straightforward, but detection accuracy deteriorates when the intermediate transfer member surface changes over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces diffuse reflected light detection as an intermediary mechanism to mediate the detection process. When the intermediate transfer member surface changes (such as scratches or foreign substance attachment), the normal reflected light detection becomes unreliable. The diffuse reflected light detection serves as a complementary intermediary that is less sensitive to these surface changes, allowing the system to maintain reliable positional deviation detection by combining both detection signals.
3Productivity
If the apparatus operates for extended periods, then productivity is maintained, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to accumulation of scratches and foreign substances on the intermediate transfer member
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by pre-configuring a dual detection system that anticipates the degradation of detection accuracy over time. Before surface changes significantly impact detection, the system already has both normal and diffuse reflected light detection pathways ready. This allows the system to maintain accurate positional deviation detection throughout extended operation periods, cushioning against the cumulative effects of scratches and foreign substance accumulation on the intermediate transfer member.
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 significantly reduces the influence of errors from surface changes and toner density fluctuations, enhancing the accuracy of positional deviation correction and maintaining image quality despite changes in the apparatus over time.
Implementation Method 1
light is emitted from a light emitting element, and reflection light from the patch and the image bearing member is received by a light receiving element
Implementation Method 2
a technique discussed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-318501 corrects the positional deviation by detecting normal reflected light from a toner image as the positional deviation correction pattern
Implementation Method 3
a technique discussed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-237904 corrects the positional deviation by detecting diffuse reflected light from a toner image
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a first detection unit including a first light receiving element arranged in a direction of normal reflected light reflected from a first positional deviation correction pattern, a second detection unit including a second light receiving element arranged in a different direction of normal reflected light reflected from a second positional deviation correction pattern, and a control unit configured to correct a positional deviation based on a value calculated from a first detection result detected by the first detection unit and a second detection result detected by the second detection unit.