Image Forming Apparatus Auto Color Registration Density Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in adjusting image quality due to changes in toner deterioration and printing environment, as they require inconvenient processes to update the Color Management System (CMS) profile, especially for devices without scanners.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus and method that uses density detection during auto color registration to measure and adjust the CMS profile, allowing for automatic color compensation by changing the profile based on measured density values, storing density ranges and corresponding profiles, and determining whether compensation is needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanner is used to measure image density and update CMS profile, then image quality adjustment is possible, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming apparatus performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment by using its own printing function to create test patterns and its own density detection capability to measure them, eliminating the need for external scanner equipment. The system automatically updates the CMS profile based on measured density values, making the device self-sufficient for quality adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the density measurement function from the scanner and integrates it directly into the image forming apparatus. By using the apparatus's inherent printing and detection capabilities rather than relying on external scanning equipment, the system removes the complexity associated with scanner integration while maintaining measurement functionality.
2Measurement precision
If CMS profile is updated through scanner measurement and manual download, then color accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where the apparatus prints test patterns, automatically measures their density using integrated detection, compares measurements against target values, and adjusts the CMS profile accordingly. This automated feedback cycle eliminates manual intervention steps and significantly reduces the time required for profile updates while maintaining color accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic update process allows the system to perform profile adjustments independently without requiring user initiation of scanner operations or manual file transfers. The apparatus self-manages the entire workflow from pattern generation to profile optimization, dramatically reducing the time investment required from users.
3Ease of operation
If density detection is integrated into auto color registration, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single system: printing, density detection, measurement, and CMS profile management. By making the apparatus universal and self-sufficient, the system eliminates the need for separate scanner devices while providing automatic color compensation, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring additional external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the density detection function with the existing auto color registration process. By combining these functions within the same operational workflow and using shared hardware resources, the system achieves automatic color compensation without proportionally increasing device complexity. The integration leverages existing components to perform multiple functions simultaneously.
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
Enables quick and convenient adjustment of image quality by updating the CMS profile according to changes in density information, ensuring optimal image output without the need for a scanner, thereby improving image quality and usability across various printing conditions.
Implementation Method 1
measuring density value formed using auto color registration
Data Source
AI summary
A method of color compensation of an image forming apparatus includes measuring a density value of a pattern formed using auto color registration, determining whether to perform color compensation using the measured density value, and changing the Color Management System (CMS) preset in the image forming apparatus to a new CMS profile if color compensation is required. Accordingly, a CMS table can be updated quickly and conveniently according to the changed density information.