Image Formation Apparatus Paper Shape Correction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image formation apparatuses struggle to immediately correct image positions when there are rapid changes in paper shape during printing, often resulting in delayed or incomplete corrections.
Innovation Solution
An image formation apparatus equipped with an image sensor on the conveyance path that detects paper changes and outputs detection data to a corrector, allowing for real-time adjustment of print positions based on the detected changes in paper shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an image sensor is disposed on the paper ejection path to detect paper size changes, then image position correction can be performed, but the correction is delayed because it is performed after observation of print results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by disposing the image sensor on the paper conveyance path upstream of the image former, allowing detection of paper shape changes before printing occurs. The control unit calculates correction amounts based on detected paper shapes in advance, enabling immediate correction without waiting for print result observation. This shifts the correction timing from post-print evaluation to pre-print preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the image sensor to continuously detect paper shape changes and providing real-time information to the control unit. The control unit adjusts image positions based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop system that automatically compensates for paper shape variations during the printing process without manual intervention or delayed correction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image is corrected after observation of print results, then correction can be performed, but the correction cannot be immediate when paper shape changes rapidly during printing
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of paper shape changes before the printing process completes. By positioning the image sensor upstream and detecting paper characteristics in advance, the control unit can calculate and apply correction amounts immediately when paper shape changes are detected, rather than waiting for print result observation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous detection and correction capability by keeping the image sensor active on the conveyance path throughout the printing process. This continuous monitoring ensures that paper shape changes are detected in real-time, allowing uninterrupted correction action without pauses or delays associated with periodic or post-process checking.
3Reliability
If a size measuring unit is arranged on the conveyance path with sufficient measurement time, then correct image position control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single image sensor to perform multiple functions: detecting paper shape changes, measuring paper dimensions, and providing data for correction calculations. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate measurement devices while maintaining reliable image position control through the versatile image sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor serves as an intermediary device that bridges paper detection and image correction functions. Rather than requiring complex direct measurement systems, the sensor mediates between the physical paper characteristics and the digital correction process, simplifying the overall system architecture while ensuring reliable position control through accurate intermediate measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
An image formation apparatus includes: an image former that prints an image on paper; a corrector that corrects a print position of the image on the paper; and a first sensor that is disposed on a conveyance path upstream of the image former, detects paper, and outputs detection data to the corrector, wherein the corrector obtains, on the basis of the detection data, an amount of change in a shape of first paper from a shape of second paper printed before the first paper is printed, and corrects a print position of a first image on the first paper on the basis of the change amount.