Image Forming Apparatus Calibration Using Merged Conversion Conditions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses require extensive calibration time due to the need for separate image forming conditions for different modes, such as image forming speeds, resolutions, and halftone processing types, necessitating multiple calibration processes at initial installation.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus executes first calibration to generate conversion conditions for multiple image forming speeds and modes using a single test pattern, followed by second calibration to refine conditions specific to each speed, allowing for efficient generation of tone correction tables across various modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If calibration is performed for each image forming mode (speed, resolution, halftone processing) separately, then the image forming conditions are optimized for each mode, but the calibration time is extended significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple image forming modes (different speeds, resolutions, and halftone processing types) into a single calibration process. The control unit executes calibration that simultaneously generates image forming conditions for multiple modes by forming test patterns at different image forming speeds and processing them together, thereby reducing calibration time while maintaining accuracy for each mode
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system is designed to perform multiple functions within a single calibration execution. The control unit can generate image forming conditions for various image forming modes (different speeds, resolutions, halftone types) through one unified calibration process, making the calibration system universal across multiple operating conditions without requiring separate calibration for each mode
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple calibration processes are executed at initial installation for different image forming modes, then comprehensive image forming conditions are generated, but the initial installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the calibration processes for different image forming modes into a single integrated process. The control unit executes one calibration that simultaneously handles multiple modes by forming test patterns at different speeds and resolutions, and processing them together to generate comprehensive image forming conditions for all modes
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system is designed to be universal, handling various image forming modes (different speeds, resolutions, halftone processing types) through a single calibration execution. This multi-functional approach ensures comprehensive coverage of all image forming modes without requiring separate calibration procedures for each mode
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a conversion unit to convert image data based on a conversion condition, an image forming unit to form an image based on an image data converted by the conversion unit, and a control unit to execute first calibration in which both a first conversion condition for a first speed and a second conversion condition for a second speed are generated based on a detection result of a first pattern that is formed at the first speed, with the first calibration being executed at initial installation of the apparatus, and execute second calibration in which the second conversion condition is generated based on a detection result of a second pattern that is formed at the second speed, with the second calibration being not executed at the initial installation of the apparatus.