Dynamic Scanning Carriage Speed for Printer Edge Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ink jet printers face a reduction in image recording speed due to the need for accurate edge detection of recording paper, which requires multiple edge detection scans, slowing down the overall printing process.
Innovation Solution
A medium position determining device that moves a scanning carriage at a first speed before reaching a position, such as an edge, and then at a second speed greater than the first speed after reaching the position, allowing for faster edge detection and image recording.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the scanning carriage moves at a constant slow speed throughout the scanning range to ensure accurate edge detection, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to reduced image recording speed
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning carriage speed is made dynamic rather than constant. The controller adjusts the scanning carriage speed based on its position: moving at a first speed before reaching the medium edge and at a second speed after passing the edge. This dynamic speed adjustment allows the system to maintain measurement precision during edge detection while improving overall productivity during the image recording phase.
2Measurement precision
If multiple edge detection scans are performed to accurately detect left and right edge positions, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to repeated scanning
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary edge detection by detecting only one edge (left or right) before image recording, rather than detecting both edges multiple times. The controller uses this preliminary detection result to determine the scanning start position, eliminating the need for repeated edge detection scans and reducing detection time while maintaining sufficient accuracy for marginless printing.
3Measurement precision
If the scanning carriage performs scanning at every predetermined conveying amount to detect edge positions, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to frequent interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and performs edge detection only at specific critical moments (before and after image recording) rather than continuously at every predetermined conveying amount. By removing the frequent interruption of scanning for edge detection during the printing process, the system maintains edge detection accuracy while significantly improving printing speed and 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 enhances image recording speed by optimizing the scanning carriage's speed based on its position relative to the recording medium, reducing detection time and improving printing efficiency, especially during marginless printing.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor which includes a light emitting portion which irradiates light to a recording medium, and a light receiving portion which receives a reflection light from the recording medium
Data Source
AI summary
A medium position determining device includes a sensor, and a scanning carriage that is configured to move in a reciprocating manner in a scanning direction, in which the sensor is mounted to the scanning carriage. The device also includes a controller that is configured to move the scanning carriage and to determine a position of the scanning carriage with respect to the medium when the scanning carriage moves; in the scanning direction. Moreover, the controller moves the scanning carriage at a first speed in the scanning direction, and after the controller determines that the scanning carriage is in a first position with respect to the medium, the controller moves the scanning carriage in the scanning direction at a second speed that is greater than the first speed.