Image Density Correction via Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in correcting image density differences in the main scanning direction, leading to uneven image quality.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an image density difference detector and control circuitry that forms gradation image patterns and corrects image density differences in the main scanning direction by adjusting exposure light intensities based on detection results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If image density correction is not performed, then device complexity is reduced, but image quality uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by detecting image density differences in the main scanning direction and automatically correcting them through adjustment of image forming conditions. The detection unit measures density variations, and the control unit applies corrections based on these measurements, creating a closed-loop system that maintains uniform image quality without requiring complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent corrects image density differences by changing image forming parameters, specifically exposure light intensity and development conditions. By adjusting these parameters based on detected density variations, the system achieves uniform image quality across the main scanning direction without adding complex mechanical structures.
2Manufacturing precision
If automatic image density correction is implemented, then image quality uniformity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service operation by enabling the image forming apparatus to automatically detect and correct its own image density differences. The detection unit monitors density variations, and the control unit autonomously adjusts image forming conditions without requiring user intervention, maintaining both high image quality and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic feedback mechanism continuously monitors image density and makes real-time corrections, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining uniform image quality. This self-regulating system improves ease of operation by removing complex manual procedures.
3Reliability
If image density correction is performed, then image quality stability is improved, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary correction by adjusting image forming conditions based on detected density differences before final image formation. This proactive approach stabilizes image quality in advance, preventing variations rather than correcting them after the fact, thereby minimizing impact on production speed.
Solution Approach 2:
By making rapid parameter adjustments to exposure and development conditions, the system achieves stable image quality correction without requiring slow mechanical adjustments or multiple processing passes, thus maintaining high productivity.
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 solution effectively corrects image density differences across the main scanning direction, ensuring uniform image quality and stability, regardless of environmental fluctuations or production tolerances.
Implementation Method 1
an image forming section configured to form a gradation image pattern on a surface of the image bearer
Implementation Method 2
an image density difference detector configured to detect image density differences in a main scanning direction of the gradation images
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearer, an image forming section, an image density difference detector, and control circuitry. The image forming section is configured to form a gradation image pattern on a surface of the image bearer. The gradation image pattern includes gradation images having different image densities stepwise in a sub-scanning direction. The image density difference detector is configured to detect image density differences in a main scanning direction of the gradation images. The control circuitry is configured to execute an image density difference correction mode that corrects the image density differences in the main scanning direction based on detection results detected by the image density difference detector.