Dynamic Color Registration Mark Formation for Toner Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Color registration deviation in image forming apparatuses leads to increased correction time and toner consumption, particularly when correcting deviations in the main scanning direction, as existing methods require larger detecting marks that consume more toner and time.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that dynamically forms different types of color registration deviation detecting marks based on the direction of deviation, using a controller to judge magnification deviations in the main and sub-scanning directions and adjust mark formation accordingly, with temperature sensors to determine when to form marks that minimize toner usage and correction time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a color registration deviation detecting mark is formed for correcting color registration deviation in the main scanning direction, then the color registration deviation can be corrected, but the size of the mark becomes larger and more toner is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mark formation process adaptive rather than static. The controller dynamically determines whether to form a detecting mark based on real-time detection of magnification deviation in the main scanning direction. When magnification deviation is detected, the mark is formed; when not detected, the mark is omitted. This dynamic adjustment optimizes toner consumption while maintaining color registration correction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of mark presence/absence based on the detected magnification deviation condition. The controller adjusts the marking parameter (form or not form) according to the main scanning direction magnification deviation state, thereby optimizing toner usage while ensuring accurate color registration correction when needed.
2Manufacturing precision
If a color registration deviation detecting mark is formed for correcting color registration deviation in the main scanning direction, then the color registration deviation can be corrected, but the time required for correction becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mark formation process adaptive rather than static. The controller dynamically determines whether to form a detecting mark based on real-time detection of magnification deviation in the main scanning direction. When magnification deviation is detected, the mark is formed; when not detected, the mark is omitted. This dynamic adjustment optimizes toner consumption while maintaining color registration correction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by forming the detecting mark only when necessary (when magnification deviation is detected) rather than always forming it. This partial approach avoids unnecessary toner consumption and correction time while maintaining the ability to correct color registration deviation when actual problems exist.
3Productivity
If temperature of exposure sections is not monitored, then the apparatus operates continuously without interruption, but magnification deviation occurs causing color registration deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using temperature sensors to continuously monitor the temperature of exposure sections and using this information to detect magnification deviation. The controller receives temperature feedback, determines whether magnification deviation has occurred, and accordingly decides whether to form a detecting mark for color registration correction. This feedback mechanism maintains both productivity and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting magnification deviation before it causes significant color registration problems. The temperature monitoring and magnification deviation detection occur proactively during normal operation, allowing the system to prepare for or prevent color registration issues without interrupting productivity.
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 reduces the time required for color registration correction and minimizes toner consumption by forming smaller marks only when necessary, allowing for accurate and efficient correction without interrupting the image forming process.
Implementation Method 1
magnification deviation takes place or not in the main-scanning direction in superposition of toner images for respective colors, and when the magnification deviation is judged to take place
Data Source
AI summary
In an image forming apparatus that forms a color image by transferring toner images for respective colors formed on plural rotary photoreceptor drums onto a sheet through an intermediate transfer member, when a controller judges that magnification deviation is generated in a main-scanning direction in superposition of the toner images for respective colors, the controller forms a first color registration deviation detecting mark for detecting at least an amount of deviation in the main scanning direction on the intermediate transfer member, and when the controller judges that the magnification deviation is not generated in the main-scanning direction in the superposition of toner images for respective colors, the controller forms a second color registration deviation detecting mark for detecting only an amount of deviation in a sub scanning direction perpendicular to the main-scanning direction on the intermediate transfer member.