Image Carrier Density and Misregistration Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges with color shift (misregistration) due to errors in attachment and environmental variations, requiring effective density correction techniques to maintain image quality.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes an image carrier with sensors to detect density and misregistration patterns, allowing for simultaneous correction by forming specific detection patterns on the image carrier, optimizing pattern lengths to minimize downtime and improve precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If misregistration correction and density correction are performed in the same sequence, then downtime is shortened, but the length of misregistration detection pattern must be reduced which may affect measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection patterns into two separate types: misregistration detection patterns and density detection patterns. These patterns are formed at different positions on the intermediate transfer member and detected by different sensors, allowing simultaneous correction processes without interfering with each other's precision while minimizing total pattern length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the circumferential direction of the intermediate transfer member to arrange both misregistration detection patterns and density detection patterns in different angular positions. This spatial arrangement in the circumferential dimension allows both correction types to be performed in the same sequence without requiring excessive pattern length in the movement direction.
2Loss of time
If the density detection pattern formation range is shortened, then correction time is reduced, but detection accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection patterns into distinct misregistration detection patterns and density detection patterns positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows each pattern type to be optimized independently - density patterns can be compact while maintaining accuracy through strategic positioning, and misregistration patterns can be placed where they provide maximum measurement value.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameters of detection patterns on the intermediate transfer member, specifically arranging them in the circumferential direction rather than only in the movement direction. This parameter change allows reduction of pattern length in the movement direction (reducing correction time) while maintaining sufficient pattern size for accurate detection through circumferential distribution.
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
This approach enables precise detection and correction of misregistration and density variations, reducing downtime and improving image quality by optimizing pattern formation and detection ranges.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor and a second sensor that detect the first detection pattern formed on the image carrier, the first detection pattern moving in a movement direction of a surface of the image carrier as the image carrier rotates
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: a formation unit configured to form a first detection pattern for density detection on an image carrier for each color used in image formation; and a first sensor and a second sensor configured to detect the first detection pattern formed on the image carrier, the first detection pattern moving in a movement direction of a surface of the image carrier as the image carrier rotates. The formation unit is further configured to form the first detection pattern on the image carrier such that a first detection pattern of an chromatic color is detected by the first sensor and a first detection pattern of an achromatic color is detected by the second sensor, and additionally form a second detection pattern for misregistration detection on the image carrier when forming the first detection pattern on the image carrier.