Image-Forming Apparatus Sensor Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image-forming apparatuses face inefficiencies in correction processes, requiring separate times for toner density detection and misregistration detection, which increases time and cost. Additionally, the use of sensors for misregistration detection is costly due to the need for different reflection channels for black and color toners.
Innovation Solution
The image-forming apparatus incorporates a pattern-forming unit that creates a single detection image for both density and misregistration detection, using a first sensor for black toner detection via specular reflection and a second sensor for color toner detection via diffuse reflection, allowing simultaneous detection and reducing sensor costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate detection images are formed for density detection and misregistration detection at different times, then detection accuracy may be maintained, but detection time and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines density detection and misregistration detection into a single detection image formed on the conveying belt. The pattern-forming unit creates detection patterns that enable both types of detection simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate detection processes and reducing detection time while maintaining accuracy through integrated sensor reading
2Adaptability or versatility
If IDC sensors with both specular and diffuse reflection channels are installed on left and right sides for misregistration detection, then comprehensive detection capability is achieved, but sensor cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the IDC sensors multi-functional by enabling them to perform both density detection and misregistration detection through a single sensor unit. The detection pattern design allows the same sensor to extract multiple types of information from the single detection image, eliminating the need for separate sensors for each detection function and reducing overall sensor cost
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 reduces the time and cost associated with correction processes by enabling simultaneous density and misregistration detection, while also minimizing sensor usage costs by eliminating the need for dual reflection channels in each sensor.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor for black toner detection via specular reflection
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor for color toner detection via diffuse reflection
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an image-forming apparatus, a correction control method and a medium. The apparatus includes an image carrier; a pattern-forming unit, configured to form a first detection pattern for density detection on the image carrier, where the first detection pattern includes a black first-sub-pattern and a non-black second-sub-pattern; a first sensor, configured to perform the density detection on the first-sub-pattern; and a second sensor, configured to perform the density detection on the second-sub-pattern; the pattern-forming unit further configured to form a second detection pattern for misregistration detection on the image carrier, where the second detection pattern includes a full-color third-sub-pattern and a full-color fourth-sub-pattern; the first sensor, further configured to perform the misregistration detection on the third-sub-pattern; and a second sensor, further configured to perform the misregistration detection on the fourth-sub-pattern. The applied technical solution can reduce the time cost of correction and the operating cost of the sensor.