Image Forming Apparatus Transfer Sheet Color Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately detecting and managing transfer sheet colors, especially when multiple colors are mixed, leading to waste and increased costs due to the need for multiple sensors, and lack an automated method to confirm color designation accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a color detection section integrated into the conveying system that displays and compares the designated transfer sheet color with the actual color detected, allowing for automatic confirmation and minimizing waste by stopping image formation if colors do not match, and reducing the need for sensors on multistage trays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If color detection sections are installed on each sheet feed tray to detect transfer sheet colors, then the color detection accuracy is improved, but the apparatus cost increases due to multiple sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the color detection function with the existing conveying section by integrating a color detection section that detects the color of transfer sheets during the conveying process. This merging approach allows the system to use a single color detection section instead of requiring separate sensors on each sheet feed tray, thereby maintaining color detection accuracy while reducing apparatus cost and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying section is given a dual function: it not only conveys transfer sheets from sheet feed trays to the image forming section but also serves as the location for color detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated color detection sections on each tray, reducing the total number of sensors required while maintaining the ability to detect transfer sheet colors accurately
2Adaptability or versatility
If transfer sheets of different colors are mixed in sheet feed trays, then the versatility of the system is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inability to accurately judge transfer sheet color
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary color detection of transfer sheets during the conveying process before image formation begins. By detecting the color of each transfer sheet in advance and comparing it with the required color for the current job, the system can identify color mismatches before they result in defective image formation, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision even when multiple colors are mixed in the trays
Solution Approach 2:
The control section compares the detected transfer sheet color with the required color information and provides feedback control by stopping image formation when a color mismatch is detected. This feedback mechanism ensures that only transfer sheets of the correct color are used for image formation, maintaining manufacturing precision while allowing versatile mixed-color storage in sheet feed trays
3Productivity
If automated color confirmation is implemented, then the productivity is improved by eliminating manual verification, but the device complexity increases due to additional detection and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The automated color confirmation system merges the color detection function with the existing conveying section and control section. The color detection section detects transfer sheet colors during normal conveying operations, and the control section automatically compares detected colors with required colors and stops image formation when mismatches are detected. This merging approach implements automated color confirmation without requiring separate complex detection and control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification of transfer sheet colors through automated detection and comparison by the control section. The control section automatically determines whether the detected color matches the required color and autonomously stops image formation when a mismatch is detected, eliminating the need for manual verification by operators while keeping the additional system complexity minimal
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures accurate image formation using desired transfer sheet colors, reduces waste, and lowers apparatus costs by eliminating the need for additional sensors and allowing for precise transfer sheet selection and registration.
Implementation Method 1
a color R, G, and B light emission section (light source) for irradiating light to transfer sheets and a light receiving section for detecting light which is reflected from the transfer sheets by irradiating from the light source
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus for forming a visible image on a transfer sheet according to a job, the image forming apparatus including: a plurality of sheet feed trays adapted to load plural kinds of transfer sheets; an image forming section for forming a visible image according to image data on a transfer sheet; a conveying section for conveying a transfer sheet from each of the plurality of sheet feed trays toward the image forming section; a display section for displaying various items; a color detection section for detecting a transfer sheet color of the transfer sheet being conveyed by the conveying section; and a control section for controlling a conveyance of the transfer sheet and the image formation, wherein the control section displays a transfer sheet color designated by the job and the transfer sheet color detected by the color detection section on the display section.