Image Forming Apparatus Density Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in achieving uniform pixel density along the main scanning direction, leading to in-plane unevenness and deteriorated image quality, with existing correction techniques requiring further improvement.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a forming unit, a first generation unit, a first storage unit, a first correction unit, a second generation unit, and determination units to generate and apply correction data for each region, using test images to update correction tables and adjust density unevenness, and perform gamma correction to enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If correction data is generated and applied for each region to compensate for density unevenness, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image formation area into multiple regions along the main scanning direction and generates correction data separately for each region. This segmentation allows targeted correction of density unevenness in each region while managing overall system complexity through modular processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different correction data to different regions based on their specific density characteristics. Each region receives customized correction parameters that match its local unevenness patterns, improving overall image quality while maintaining manageable complexity through localized processing.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple correction processes are implemented to address density unevenness, then correction effect is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent generates correction data in advance using test images before actual image formation. This preliminary preparation of correction tables and lookup data allows the actual image processing to proceed more quickly, as the correction parameters are already computed and stored.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses test images to measure actual density characteristics and generates correction data based on this feedback. The correction data is then applied to subsequent images, creating a feedback loop that continuously improves correction accuracy while optimizing processing efficiency through learned patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a first generation unit to determine a density in each of a plurality of regions of a first image formed by the forming unit, and generate first correction data for correcting a density of an image to be formed by the forming unit for each of the plurality of regions based on the density. The first correction unit corrects the density of the image to be formed by the forming unit for each of the plurality of regions based on the first correction data stored by the first storage unit. The second generation unit determines a density of a second image formed by the forming unit, and generate second correction data based on the density. The first determination unit determines an amount of unevenness in the main scanning direction of formation density by the forming unit based on the density determined by the second generation unit. The second determination unit determines that the first correction data is to be generated, based on the amount of unevenness determined by the first determination unit.