Image Forming System Conveyance Interval Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses experience reduced productivity due to unnecessary prolongation of conveyance interval times when connected with post processing apparatuses, as they notify the image forming apparatus of the most time-consuming post processing time regardless of recording material type and conveyance speed, leading to inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system where the post processing apparatus notifies the image forming apparatus of multiple time periods for completing and starting post processing operations based on different conditions, allowing the image forming apparatus to select an optimal time period for starting the image forming operation, thereby optimizing conveyance interval times and improving productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the post processing apparatus notifies the image forming apparatus of the conveyance interval time based on the most time-consuming post processing operation regardless of recording material type and conveyance speed, then the post processing operations can be completed reliably, but the conveyance interval time becomes longer than necessary, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by notifying the image forming apparatus of multiple conveyance interval time parameters corresponding to different recording material types and conveyance speeds. The image forming apparatus then selects the appropriate parameter based on the current printing conditions, allowing the system to adapt the conveyance interval time to match the actual post processing requirements rather than using a fixed conservative value.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the conveyance interval time adjustable and selectable based on varying conditions. Instead of a static fixed time value, the system dynamically selects from multiple predefined time values according to the recording material type and conveyance speed, enabling the system to optimize performance for each specific operating condition.
2Ease of operation
If the image forming apparatus uses a fixed conveyance interval time notified by the post processing apparatus, then the control is simple, but the conveyance interval time cannot be optimized for different recording material types and conveyance speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the post processing apparatus pre-calculate and notify multiple conveyance interval time values corresponding to different recording material types and conveyance speeds before the image forming operation begins. This allows the image forming apparatus to quickly select the appropriate time value during operation without performing complex real-time calculations, maintaining control simplicity while enabling optimization.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the conveyance interval time is extended to accommodate the most time-consuming post processing operation, then all post processing operations can be synchronized, but unnecessary waiting time is introduced, reducing overall system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different conveyance interval time values for different local conditions (recording material types and conveyance speeds). Each time value is specifically tailored to match the actual post processing requirements for that particular condition, ensuring synchronization is achieved with the minimum necessary waiting time rather than using a universal conservative value for all cases.
Data Source
AI summary
The sheet discharge control unit notifies an engine control unit of plural conveyance interval times for different conveyance speeds beforehand, where each of the conveyance interval times corresponds to a period from completion of a post processing operation with respect to a preceding piece of recording material post-processed earlier until a start of a post processing operation with respect to a given piece of recording material post-processed subsequently to the preceding piece of recording material. When performing image formation on the given piece of recording material, the engine control unit selects a conveyance interval time which matches a conveyance speed for performing image formation on the given piece of recording material from the plural conveyance interval times, of which the engine control unit has been notified by the sheet discharge control unit, and determines a timing to start the image forming operation, based on the selected conveyance interval time.