Image Density Prediction Model Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming apparatus calibration methods, which predict changes in image density and color tint using models, often require correction due to their initial average nature, leading to potential inaccuracies in image density control when applied to individual use environments, and may use inappropriate data for model correction.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that acquires log data from image forming operations, allows user selection of data for model generation, and transmits this information to a computing apparatus to generate and update an image density prediction model, enabling more accurate prediction and correction of image density.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an average image density prediction model is used to cover various use environments, then the model can be applied broadly, but the prediction accuracy for individual use environments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel applicabilityVSAvoidimage density prediction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the use environments into multiple categories and creates separate prediction models for each category. Instead of using a single average model, the system divides the broad application domain into specific segments (different use environments) and develops specialized models for each segment, thereby achieving both broad coverage and high accuracy within each segment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a dynamic model selection mechanism that adapts to different use environments in real-time. The system dynamically selects or adjusts the appropriate prediction model based on the current use environment, allowing the model to transition from a static average model to a dynamic environment-specific model, thus improving prediction accuracy without sacrificing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Quantity of substance

If all acquired log data is used for model correction, then more data is available for training, but inappropriate data may degrade the prediction accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining data volumeVSAvoidprediction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by selecting training data based on its relevance to specific use environments. Instead of uniformly using all data, the system evaluates the quality and appropriateness of each data point for the target use environment, ensuring that only suitable data is used for correction. This selective approach maintains high prediction accuracy by preventing inappropriate data from degrading the model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system evaluates the impact of correction data on prediction accuracy. By monitoring whether the correction improves or degrades performance, the system can adjust its data selection criteria and exclude inappropriate data from future corrections, thereby maintaining high prediction accuracy while utilizing sufficient training data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12061825B2Information processing apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.08.13 CANON KK
  • US12061825B2 patent drawing
  • US12061825B2 patent drawing
  • US12061825B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus configured to output information to a computing apparatus configured to generate a model for determining a density of an image to be formed by an image forming apparatus, the information processing apparatus includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire pieces of log data each relating to a measurement result of an image formed by the image forming apparatus; a reception unit configured to receive information for specifying a piece of log data to be used for generation of the model among the pieces of log data acquired by the acquisition unit; and a transmission unit configured to transmit the information to the computing apparatus.