Image Forming Apparatus Gradation Correction Data Prioritization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in maintaining accurate gradation correction, particularly during consecutive image formation operations, as they either rely on test patterns that reduce productivity or depend on image characteristics that lead to decreased quality when fewer tones are used, resulting in inconsistent gradation correction control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an image forming apparatus that utilizes two types of gradation correction data derived from different sources: one from detecting a pattern image on an image bearer and another from comparing user images on a recording medium, with circuitry to prioritize and adjust these data sets based on the characteristics of the recording medium and image, ensuring stable gradation correction across consecutive print jobs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If test patterns are used for gradation correction, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to reduced printing speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two types of correction data: test pattern-based correction data (high precision) and actual image-based correction data (maintains productivity). The system merges these data sources by storing both in memory and selectively using them based on printing conditions, thereby achieving both high precision and maintained productivity without sacrificing either aspect
2Productivity
If actual images are used for gradation correction, then productivity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates when fewer tones are used
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of correction data selection based on printing conditions. When images with fewer tones are detected, the system switches from using actual image-based correction data to using test pattern-based correction data, thereby maintaining measurement precision while preserving productivity through adaptive parameter adjustment
3Device complexity
If single correction data source is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to inconsistent correction control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments correction data into two distinct types: test pattern-based correction data and actual image-based correction data. Each type is stored separately in memory and managed independently. The system then selects and applies the appropriate segment based on printing conditions, thereby improving reliability through specialized correction data while maintaining manageable complexity through structured organization
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a transferor, a first detector to detect an image formed on the transferor, a second detector to detect an image formed on a recording medium, and circuitry. The circuitry is configured to generate first gradation correction data based on a detection result obtained by the first detector, generate second gradation correction data based on a detection result obtained by the second detector, and control gradation correction for the image formed on the recording medium using the first and second gradation correction data. Further, the circuitry is configured to prioritize one of the first and second gradation correction data based on at least one of a characteristic of the recording medium and a characteristic of the image in the gradation correction during consecutive printing in which images are consecutively formed on recording media.