External Colorimeter Calibration Control for Accurate Measurement Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing colorimeters, especially external ones, face challenges in determining the necessity of calibration due to varying measurement conditions, leading to inaccurate colorimetry results.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus and method that controls a colorimeter by obtaining colorimetry information and executing calibration based on received data, including determining the need for calibration through colorimetric error information and variations in colorimetric values, and setting designated times for calibration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If calibration is performed every time colorimetry is performed or when measurement mode changes, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but operational complexity and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolorimetry accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary calibration at designated times (e.g., when power is supplied, periodically) rather than requiring calibration at every measurement operation. This preliminary action ensures the colorimeter is calibrated before use without requiring repeated calibration during continuous operation, reducing time loss while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the colorimeter communicates its calibration status and measurement data to the information processing apparatus. Based on this feedback, the system automatically determines when recalibration is necessary, avoiding unnecessary calibration operations and optimizing the balance between accuracy and time efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If calibration is determined based on fixed reference values, then calibration timing is simple to determine, but adaptability to varying measurement conditions is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration adaptabilityVSAvoidcalibration control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts calibration timing and requirements based on varying measurement conditions such as different measurement modes, environmental factors, and usage patterns. Instead of fixed reference values, the calibration control apparatus adapts its decisions to current operating conditions, improving versatility while managing complexity through automated condition monitoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes calibration parameters and timing based on detected measurement conditions. When different measurement modes or environmental conditions are detected, the system adjusts calibration requirements accordingly, enabling adaptability to varying conditions without requiring manual intervention or complex user input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If manual calibration operation is required, then user control over calibration timing is maintained, but ease of operation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration operation easeVSAvoidcalibration automation level
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The colorimeter and information processing apparatus work together to automatically manage calibration without requiring manual user intervention. The system self-determines when calibration is needed based on usage patterns and measurement conditions, and automatically executes calibration procedures, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining appropriate automation levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250274557A1Information processing apparatus, control method, and storage medium storing program
Publication Date: 2025.08.28 CANON KK
  • US20250274557A1 patent drawing
  • US20250274557A1 patent drawing
  • US20250274557A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The information processing apparatus obtains information relating to colorimetry from a colorimeter connected to the information processing apparatus; and controls, the colorimeter to execute calibration, based on the obtained information relating to colorimetry.