Image Processing Device Fold Position Adjustment Using Punch Hole Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing devices face challenges in accurately adjusting the fold position of recording paper due to variations in paper characteristics, leading to inconsistencies in fold positioning during folding operations.

Innovation Solution

An image processing device that includes a fold unit, a punch hole former, and a position identifying unit, which uses punch hole images to accurately identify the fold line position on an adjustment sheet, allowing for precise adjustment of the fold position based on reference marks and punch hole formation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a predetermined reference fold position is used for folding, then the folding operation can be performed, but the fold position accuracy deteriorates due to variations in paper characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefolding operation efficiencyVSAvoidfold position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by forming punch holes at the actual fold line position before reading the image, and by providing guidance marks on the adjustment sheet that indicate where to fold. This allows the fold position to be determined empirically rather than relying solely on predetermined positions, thereby improving accuracy while maintaining efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses image reading to detect the actual fold line position and provides feedback by displaying the detected position and comparing it with the reference fold position. This feedback mechanism allows for real-time adjustment and verification of fold accuracy, resolving the contradiction between automated folding efficiency and position precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If fold position adjustment is performed manually, then fold position accuracy can be improved, but the operation complexity and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefold position accuracyVSAvoidadjustment operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by automatically detecting the fold line position through image reading and automatically calculating the adjustment amount. The device performs the adjustment operation autonomously based on the detected position, eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment while maintaining high accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated image processing and calculation system. Instead of manual measurement and physical adjustment, the system uses optical detection (image reading) and computational methods to determine and execute the fold position adjustment, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining precision

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

3Measurement precision

If punch holes are formed in the folded adjustment sheet, then the fold line position can be identified accurately, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefold line position detection accuracyVSAvoidprocessing mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses punch holes as an intermediary marker to indicate the fold line position. Instead of directly detecting the fold line, the system forms punch holes at the fold position and uses them as reference points for image-based detection. This intermediary approach simplifies the detection mechanism while improving measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes visual contrast (analogous to color changes) by forming dark punch holes on the adjustment sheet that are easily distinguishable in the captured image. The punch holes create high-contrast features that simplify image processing and position detection, achieving accurate measurement without complex detection mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Data Source

PatentUS10277759B1Image processing device and method
Publication Date: 2019.04.30 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP
  • US10277759B1 patent drawing
  • US10277759B1 patent drawing
  • US10277759B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing device includes: a fold unit that folds an adjustment sheet based on a predetermined reference fold position; a punch hole former that forms a punch hole in a stacked portion of the adjustment sheet, created as a consequence of folding of the adjustment sheet; an image reader that reads an image of the adjustment sheet with the adjustment sheet unfolded, in which the punch hole is formed; and a position identifying unit that identifies a position of a fold line using at least positions of a pair of punch hole images which appear in the image of the adjustment sheet and on both sides of the fold line of the adjustment sheet.