Image Forming Apparatus Dynamic Resolution Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses without a ten-key board or touch panel face inefficiencies in adjusting and correcting reading processes for varying copy numbers, leading to increased time requirements due to fixed number settings and resolution limitations.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a signal output unit, reading unit, and controller that dynamically adjusts between high and low resolution reading modes based on user input, allowing for efficient preparation and processing operations to match the number of copies, thereby reducing overall completion time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the number of copies is fixed from the first pressing of the specific key, then the device operation is simplified, but the time required to start adjustment and correction processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of copy requests into two categories (first category for 1-9 copies, second category for 10 or more copies) and pre-prepares corresponding control parameters before actual reading occurs. This preliminary action allows the system to have adjustment and correction processing ready in advance, reducing the time required when copying begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects different control parameters based on the detected number of copies. When the number of copies is determined to be in the first category, the system uses first control parameters optimized for that range; when in the second category, it uses second control parameters. This dynamic adaptation allows optimal processing parameters to be applied without delaying the start of operations.
2Measurement precision
If reading is performed at high resolution, then image quality is improved, but memory capacity is exceeded when multiple copies are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the reading resolution parameter based on the number of copies required. For the first category (1-9 copies), high resolution reading is performed to maintain image quality. For the second category (10 or more copies), the system switches to lower resolution reading to reduce memory requirements while still meeting the needs of multiple copy operations. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction between image quality and memory capacity.
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustment and correction processing is performed before reading, then reading quality is improved, but the time required to complete copying increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs adjustment and correction processing in advance, before actual document reading begins. By preparing the necessary control parameters and processing conditions beforehand, the system ensures that when reading starts, all preparatory work is already complete, thus maintaining high reading quality without adding to the actual copying time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the extent and type of preparation operations based on the detected number of copies. For different copy quantities, different levels of preparation are applied, optimizing the balance between reading quality and processing time. This dynamic approach ensures that preparation operations do not unnecessarily extend copying time while still achieving required quality standards.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: a signal output unit configured to output a signal in response to a user operation; a reading unit configured to read a document and generate image data having a first resolution or a second resolution lower than the first resolution; a recording unit configured to form an image on a recording medium; and a controller configured to control the reading unit and the recording unit and execute: (a) primary preparation operation start processing of, when a signal is output, controlling the reading unit so as to start a first preparation operation or a second preparation operation; (b) determination processing of determining; (c) secondary preparation operation start processing and/or reading processing; (d) decision processing of deciding the continuous number of recording copies; and (e) recording processing of causing the recording unit to form the image on the recording medium.