Dynamic Reference Value Selection for Image Reading Accuracy

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Image reading devices struggle to accurately scan documents due to deterioration of reference members, light sources, and light-receiving sensors over time, especially when affected by outside light, leading to abnormal reference values and unreliable image formation.

Innovation Solution

An image reading device with a reference member, reading unit, first and second reference value setting units, a detecting unit, and a pixel value setting unit that scans documents and reference members to set reference values based on usage state, determining whether to use first or second reference values to ensure accurate pixel value setting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the reference member is used to correct light-receiving sensitivity, then image reading accuracy is improved initially, but the reference values become abnormal over time due to deterioration and outside light influence

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage reading accuracyVSAvoidreference value reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reference value management by storing multiple reference values in memory and selecting appropriate ones based on reading conditions. The system dynamically switches between different reference values (first reference value for normal conditions, second reference value for corrected conditions) to maintain accuracy despite component deterioration over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary correction by calculating a second reference value that compensates for expected deterioration and outside light influence. This corrected reference value is stored in advance and selected when abnormal conditions are detected, preventing accuracy degradation before it occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If the abnormal reference value is rewritten based on adjacent data, then individual abnormal values are corrected, but overall reference values remain abnormal when the entire reference member is affected by outside light

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereference value accuracyVSAvoidadaptation to outside light influence
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a correction mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the deteriorated reference member and the image reading process. The second reference value setting unit calculates corrected reference values that mediate the effect of outside light influence, and the selecting unit chooses the appropriate reference value based on current conditions, effectively isolating the system from the harmful external influence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the reference value parameter based on detection results. When outside light influence or deterioration is detected, the system switches from using the first reference value (scanned from reference member) to the second reference value (corrected for abnormal conditions), thereby adapting to changing environmental parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If a single reference value is used for all reading operations, then the system is simple to operate, but image quality becomes inconsistent over time due to component deterioration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidimage quality consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reference value selection that automatically adapts to component deterioration without requiring user intervention. The system dynamically chooses between first and second reference values based on detection results, maintaining image quality consistency while keeping the operation interface simple and unchanged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the detecting unit monitors reading conditions and provides information to the selecting unit. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust which reference value is used, ensuring consistent image quality over time while maintaining operational simplicity through automated decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 solution allows for reliable and accurate image scanning by adapting to changes in the device's components over time and external light influences, ensuring consistent image quality.

Implementation Method 1

irradiates light on a document from a light source and reads reflection light reflected off the document using a plurality of light-receiving sensor such as a CCD

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

reads reflection light reflected off the document using a plurality of light-receiving sensor such as a CCD to form an image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8111433B2Image reading device capably scanning an image formed on a document in consideration of deterioration of the reference member
Publication Date: 2012.02.07 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US8111433B2 patent drawing
  • US8111433B2 patent drawing
  • US8111433B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image reading device includes a reference member, a reading unit, a first reference value setting unit, a detecting unit, a second reference value setting unit, a determining unit, and a pixel value setting unit. The reading unit obtains image data and reference data. The first reference value setting unit sets a first reference value based on the reference data. The detecting unit detects a usage state of the reading unit. The second reference value setting unit sets a second reference value in accordance with the usage state. If the determining unit determines that the first reference value is in a predetermined condition, the pixel value setting unit sets a pixel value based on the image data and the first reference value; otherwise, the pixel value setting unit sets the pixel value based on the image data and the second reference value.