Image Density Control Across Multiple Printing Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses struggle with low correction accuracy for multiple target image densities due to environmental changes and component variations, requiring multiple adjustment controls, which is inefficient and inaccurate.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with multiple modes and a control system that uses pattern images to detect and adjust image forming conditions dynamically, incorporating an image processor to convert signals and form patterns for accurate density control across different modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple adjustment controls are performed for each target image density, then correction accuracy for multiple densities is improved, but adjustment time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary adjustment control for a reference image density to establish baseline image forming conditions. These pre-established conditions and the correlation data between different densities enable rapid determination of conditions for other densities without repeating full adjustment procedures, thus reducing adjustment time while maintaining correction accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces correlation data as an intermediary element that links reference image forming conditions to conditions for other target densities. This correlation data, stored in advance, acts as a mediator that allows the control unit to determine appropriate conditions for multiple densities based on a single reference measurement, eliminating the need for multiple separate adjustment controls.
2Measurement precision
If multiple adjustment controls are performed for each target image density, then correction accuracy for multiple densities is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with multi-functionality to perform adjustment control for multiple target image densities using a unified approach. By establishing correlation data that applies across different densities and using a single reference adjustment to determine conditions for all densities, the system reduces operational complexity while maintaining the capability to accurately correct images at multiple density levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a correlation model based on reference image forming conditions and uses this model to copy or replicate the adjustment process for other target densities. Instead of performing independent adjustments for each density, the system copies the reference conditions and modifies them based on pre-stored correlation data, significantly simplifying the operational process.
3Ease of operation
If image forming conditions are determined from a single toner pattern image, then adjustment process is simplified, but correction accuracy decreases due to inability to adapt to changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control unit continuously monitors image density and compares it against target densities. Based on this feedback and using the stored correlation data, the system dynamically adjusts image forming conditions to maintain correction accuracy even when component states or environmental conditions change, without requiring complex manual re-adjustment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus forms an image on a sheet based on an image forming mode, the image forming mode including a first image forming mode and a second image forming mode for forming an image having a maximum density different from a maximum density of an image in the first image forming mode. The image forming apparatus includes an image processor configured to convert an image signal based on a conversion condition, an image forming unit configured to form an image based on the image signal converted by the image processor, the image forming unit being controlled based on an image forming condition corresponding to the image forming mode, an image bearing member on which a pattern image is to be formed by the image forming unit, and a sensor configured to detect the pattern image formed on the image bearing member.