Image Forming Apparatus Deviation Correction Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately acquiring appropriate amounts of positional and density deviations due to overlapping registration patterns or false detections caused by damaged parts or foreign substances on the transfer belt, leading to unclear solutions for users when deviations cannot be appropriately measured.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an automatic acquiring unit that forms and detects marks to measure deviations, an image forming unit that adjusts image positions and densities based on correction values, and an output unit that executes pattern printing or notification processes when deviations are outside permissible ranges, allowing users to input manual correction values through pattern images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If automatic detection of registration patterns is used to acquire amounts of deviation, then image adjustment can be performed without manual intervention, but inappropriate deviation amounts cannot be detected when patterns overlap or are falsely detected
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs feedback by detecting whether the acquired deviation amount is within a predetermined range. When the deviation exceeds this range, the system identifies this as an abnormal state and triggers notification to the user, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that ensures reliable measurement while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification step between automatic detection and final correction. The system acts as an intermediary that checks the validity of automatically acquired deviation amounts and mediates between automated operation and manual intervention by notifying users when abnormal conditions are detected.
2Adaptability or versatility
If registration patterns are formed at large positional deviations, then the apparatus can handle larger correction ranges, but the patterns overlap and become undetectable
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by forming registration patterns at predetermined positions before actual image formation. These patterns serve as reference markers that allow the system to detect and measure positional deviations, enabling the apparatus to handle various correction scenarios while maintaining detectability through proper pattern placement.
3Reliability
If manual correction values are input by users, then appropriate corrections can be made for abnormal situations, but the operation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting registration patterns and acquiring deviation amounts without requiring user intervention for normal operations. Manual input is only required when abnormal conditions are detected, making the system mostly autonomous while maintaining high reliability through selective user involvement.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an automatic acquiring unit which is configured to form a mark for detecting at least one of positional deviation and density deviation and acquire an amount of deviation by measuring the mark, an image forming unit which is configured to form an image while adjusting at least one of positional deviation and density deviation based on a correction value specified by the amount of deviation, and an output unit which is configured to execute at least one of a pattern printing process and a notifying process when an amount of deviation within a permissible range is not acquired by the automatic acquiring unit. The pattern printing process includes printing a pattern image for specifying a correction value on a recording sheet. The notifying process includes making notification for prompting execution of the pattern printing process.