Image Forming System Post-Processing Synchronization Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming systems and post-processing apparatuses face difficulties in operating in conjunction with each other due to varying communication and control rules, making it challenging to coordinate image formation and post-processing operations.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system that includes an image forming unit, a post-processing unit, an acquiring unit, a first transmitting unit, and a post-processing control unit, where the acquiring unit detects the discharge timing of the recording medium from the image forming unit and the first transmitting unit sends a post-processing start signal to the post-processing control unit to synchronize the start of post-processing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple apparatuses with different communication and control rules are directly connected, then device compatibility is improved, but coordination between image forming unit and post-processing unit deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control apparatus as an intermediary between the image forming apparatus and post-processing apparatus. This mediator translates and coordinates commands between devices with different communication rules, enabling reliable coordinated operation while maintaining compatibility with multiple device types. The control apparatus receives print jobs, manages the image forming process, and triggers post-processing operations at appropriate timing.
2Ease of operation
If one driver controls all peripherals, then ease of operation is improved, but synchronization between image forming and post-processing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the control apparatus monitors the status of the image forming unit and triggers post-processing operations based on actual discharge timing of recorded media. This feedback loop ensures proper synchronization while maintaining ease of operation through unified driver control. The system adapts to real-time conditions rather than relying on fixed timing.
3Productivity
If post-processing starts immediately, then productivity is improved, but coordination accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control apparatus performs preliminary actions by preparing the post-processing unit in advance while the image forming operation is still in progress. When the discharge timing is detected, the post-processing unit is already ready to immediately process the recorded media, minimizing delays while maintaining accurate timing coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming system includes an image forming unit, a post-processing unit, an acquiring unit, a first transmitting unit, and a post-processing control unit. The image forming unit forms an image on a recording medium. The post-processing unit is provided at a side for discharging the recording medium of the image forming unit and performs predetermined post-processing on the recording medium. The acquiring unit acquires a discharge timing at which the recording medium is discharged from the image forming unit. The first transmitting unit transmits a post-processing start signal corresponding to the discharge timing. The post-processing control unit causes the post-processing unit to start the post-processing when receiving the post-processing start signal from the first transmitting unit.