Exposure Distance Adjustment for Stable Image Density

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming systems face challenges in maintaining optimal image quality due to changes in the distance between the image bearing member and the exposure device, leading to reduced image density and quality over time.

Innovation Solution

An image forming system equipped with a detection sensor to monitor image density and an adjustment mechanism to automatically adjust the distance between the image bearing member and the exposure device when the detected image density reaches a predetermined threshold, using motors and adjustment blocks to maintain alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the distance between the image bearing member and the exposure device is fixed at the designed focal-point distance, then the initial image quality is optimal, but the image density decreases over time due to distance changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage quality consistencyVSAvoidimage density
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the distance between the image bearing member and exposure device adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustment device modifies the focal distance based on detected image density, allowing the system to adapt to distance changes over time and maintain optimal image quality consistently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using a detector to monitor image density and providing this information to the adjustment device. When image density falls below a threshold, the system automatically adjusts the distance, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains reliable image quality through continuous monitoring and correction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If manual focal-point adjustment is performed by setting the LPH to negative and positive positions, then resolution can be determined, but the adjustment process is complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresolution determinationVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically perform focal-point adjustment without manual intervention. The detector monitors image density and triggers automatic adjustment when thresholds are met, eliminating the need for operators to manually set the LPH to negative and positive positions, thereby reducing adjustment time while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated system combining detection and mechanical adjustment components. Instead of manual positioning, the system uses the detector to identify when adjustment is needed and the adjustment device to execute the positioning, substituting human operation with an automated control mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Area of stationary object

If the exposure device uses multiple lenses arranged in axial direction, then image coverage is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage coverage areaVSAvoidexposure device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the exposure function across multiple lenses arranged in the axial direction. Each lens handles a specific portion of the imaging task, allowing the system to cover a larger area while maintaining manageable complexity through functional division of the optical system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

The system ensures consistent image quality by dynamically adjusting the distance between the image bearing member and the exposure device, improving image density and reducing variations in image quality over time.

Implementation Method 1

an exposure device that is disposed facing the image bearing member, has multiple lenses arranged in an axial direction of the image bearing member, and exposes the image bearing member to light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20260010105A1Image forming system
Publication Date: 2026.01.08 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP
  • US20260010105A1 patent drawing
  • US20260010105A1 patent drawing
  • US20260010105A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An image forming system includes: an image bearing member that rotates; an exposure device that is disposed facing the image bearing member, has multiple lenses arranged in an axial direction of the image bearing member, and exposes the image bearing member to light; a developing device that develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the image bearing member by the exposure device into a toner image; a detector that detects an image density of the toner image; an adjustment device that adjusts a distance between the image bearing member and the exposure device; and at least one processor configured to cause the adjustment device to adjust the distance when the image density detected by the detector reaches a predetermined threshold value.