Image Forming Apparatus Paper Type Detection Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses with multiple paper feeding cassettes, there is a challenge in accurately detecting paper type before printing, leading to potential interference and the need for complex mechanisms to return partially fed paper, which can cause jams and misdetection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating paper type detection into the image processing algorithm, allowing detection during paper feeding and conveyance, and synchronizing the image forming process with the detection results, enabling optimal image forming conditions without requiring pre-feed paper type detection or complex return mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If paper type detection is performed by feeding a leading end of paper by a predetermined quantity before printing, then paper type information can be acquired in advance for proper image forming settings, but the fed paper may project to the common conveying path and interfere with feeding and conveyance of paper from other cassettes
Solution Approach 1:
The paper type detection is performed in advance by feeding the leading end of paper through the sensor before the actual printing process. This preliminary detection allows the system to acquire paper type information and set appropriate image forming conditions beforehand, resolving the contradiction by separating the detection phase from the printing phase while managing paper position through controlled feeding and returning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The leading end of the paper is extracted and fed separately through the sensor for detection purposes only. This extracted portion is then returned to its original position after detection, allowing the main body of paper to remain in its cassette without interfering with other cassettes' paper feeding operations
2Measurement precision
If a paper feeding mechanism is provided for each paper feeding cassette to enable separate paper type detection, then paper type can be detected before printing, but the system complexity increases and mechanisms to return partially fed paper are needed which can cause jams
Solution Approach 1:
A single common conveying path and sensor system serves multiple paper feeding cassettes. The sensor and conveying mechanism are designed to handle paper from any cassette, detecting paper type without requiring separate detection mechanisms for each cassette. This universal approach reduces system complexity while maintaining the ability to detect paper type from any source
Solution Approach 2:
The common conveying path acts as an intermediary between the various paper cassettes and the sensor. Paper from any cassette is temporarily conveyed through this intermediate path for detection, allowing the sensor to access paper from different sources without requiring direct integration with each cassette's feeding mechanism
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the sensor is arranged in a narrow portion near the paper feeding mechanism to prevent interference, then paper from other cassettes is not hindered, but the sensor arrangement is restricted and double feeding may still cause projection to the conveying path
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of double feeding conditions by monitoring paper passage through the sensor before the paper reaches the conveying path. When double feeding is detected, the system takes corrective action by returning the extra paper to the cassette, preventing it from projecting to the common conveying path and interfering with other cassettes
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
This approach simplifies the paper type detection process, reduces the risk of interference, and stabilizes operations by allowing the image forming process to start in synchronization with paper conveyance, improving image quality and reducing the burden on the paper feeding mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor that is arranged on an upstream side with respect to the image forming unit on the paper conveying path and detects a type of paper conveyed by this paper conveying path
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus of the invention conveys paper fed by a paper feeding mechanism piece by piece to a paper discharging unit through a paper conveying path. An image forming unit is arranged in a midway portion of this paper conveying path and executes an image forming process for printing an image based on image data on paper being conveyed. A sensor that detects a type of the paper conveyed is arranged on an upstream side with respect to the image forming unit on the paper conveying path. Image forming process conditions for the image forming unit are set in accordance with a detection result of the sensor. When the paper fed to the paper conveying path is paper not detected by the sensor, the image forming process is started awaiting a detection result by the sensor. On the other hand, when the paper is detected by the sensor, the image forming process is started without awaiting paper type detection. Moreover, paper being conveyed is conveyed to the image forming unit, in which the image forming process is started, in synchronization with a printing operation of the image forming unit.