Image Forming Apparatus Print Concentration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses with toner conservation modes can lead users to incorrectly assume abnormal operation when printing at concentrations lower than normal, as the reduced toner usage is not clearly differentiated from normal operation.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus and method that prints test images and texts at various print concentrations, allowing users to confirm and control print settings between normal and toner conservation modes, including adjusting toner supply and print position, and displaying concentration levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If the toner conservation mode is applied to all output material, then the toner can be conserved, but the user may come to an incorrect conclusion that the apparatus is operating abnormally
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by printing test images at different concentration levels before actual printing. This allows the user to confirm the print concentration level in advance, preventing misinterpretation of the printed output while maintaining toner conservation benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
Test images serve as an intermediary between the printing system and the user. These test images provide visual confirmation of print concentration levels, acting as a mediator that communicates the actual printing state to the user without requiring changes to the main printing process.
2Loss of substance
If the print concentration is reduced to conserve toner, then the toner conservation is achieved, but the user cannot distinguish between normal conservation mode operation and abnormal apparatus operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system prints test images at predetermined concentration levels corresponding to different print modes (normal mode, conservation mode) before actual printing. This preliminary action allows users to visually confirm the expected concentration level, ensuring that reduced concentration in conservation mode is recognized as normal operation rather than an error.
Solution Approach 2:
The test images are printed at different concentration levels that create visible differences in color intensity and density. This allows users to distinguish between normal and conservation mode printing by comparing the visual appearance of test images against expected reference concentrations.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus to print at least one of a plurality of test images and texts at various print concentration levels such that confusion of a user due to a change of a print concentration level is prevented, and a method of controlling the same. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus includes receiving confirmation of a print concentration level to print an image and printing at least one of test images and texts having predetermined print concentrations according to a normal print mode and a toner conservation mode, according to the received confirmation of the print concentration level.