Edge Sensor Displacement Detection for Inkjet Misregistration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet image recording apparatuses face misregistration of single-color images due to paper elongation during ink ejection, which is difficult to correct using conventional register marks, especially when they are not continuously detectable and require additional space on the printing paper.
Innovation Solution
A base material processing apparatus that includes a transport mechanism and edge sensors to detect the position of the paper's edge at multiple points, calculating displacement in the transport direction by analyzing the expansion and contraction of the paper, allowing for continuous detection without relying on register marks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reference images (register marks) are formed on the surface of printing paper to detect position, then misregistration can be corrected, but the space for recording the intended print image is narrowed and continuous detection is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the detection function from the surface of the printing paper by detecting the edge of the paper instead of using register marks printed on the paper surface. This removes the harmful element (register marks occupying printable area) while preserving the useful function (position detection). The edge detection is performed by sensors that detect the physical edge of the paper without requiring any marks or images on the paper surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary element (edge detection sensors) that indirectly measure the paper position without requiring direct marking on the paper. Instead of detecting registered marks on the paper surface, the system detects the paper edge as an intermediary reference, which then allows calculation of paper displacement and correction of ink ejection positions.
2Measurement precision
If reference images are formed at predetermined intervals to detect position, then misregistration can be corrected, but continuous detection of paper displacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables continuous detection by using edge detection sensors that continuously monitor the paper edge position as the paper moves through the apparatus. Unlike intermittent detection of register marks at predetermined intervals, the edge detection provides continuous feedback on paper position, allowing real-time correction of ink ejection timing throughout the entire printing process.
3Manufacturing precision
If register marks are used to detect paper position, then correction of ink ejection position is possible, but additional detection components and space are required
Solution Approach 1:
The edge detection sensors serve multiple functions: they detect the paper edge position, calculate paper displacement, and enable correction of ink ejection timing. This single detection mechanism replaces the need for separate register mark detection systems, simplifying the overall device while maintaining or improving position accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A base material processing apparatus includes a first edge sensor, a second edge sensor, and a displacement amount calculation part. The first edge sensor acquires a first detection result (R1) by detecting the position of an edge of a base material in the width direction at a first detection position. The second edge sensor acquires a second detection result (R2) by detecting the position of the edge of the base material in the width direction at a second detection position. The displacement amount calculation part calculates the amount of displacement in the position of the base material in the transport direction on the basis of the first detection result (R1) and the second detection result (R2). Accordingly, the amount of displacement in the position of the base material in the transport direction can be detected without depending on images such as register marks.