Image Forming Apparatus Test Sheet Segmentation for Detection Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately determining the timing of measurement images reaching the sensor due to incomplete fixing of reference images caused by varying developer amounts affected by environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, leading to inaccurate image quality adjustment control.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus creates two test sheets with differently sized reference and measurement images, where the first test sheet has longer reference images to ensure detection accuracy, and the second test sheet has shorter reference images to prevent defective fixing, allowing for precise adjustment of image forming conditions and gradation characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the amount of developer for reference images is increased to ensure detection accuracy, then the reference images can be detected more reliably, but the fixing device cannot completely fix the reference images onto the sheet due to excessive developer amount
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the test sheet into two distinct types: first test sheets with first reference images (longer in conveyance direction) for detection accuracy, and second test sheets with second reference images (shorter in conveyance direction) for reliable fixing. This segmentation allows the system to separately optimize for detection precision and fixing completeness without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
Different reference images are designed with different local characteristics - first reference images have greater length in the conveyance direction to enhance detectability, while second reference images have reduced length to ensure complete fixing. Each type is locally optimized for its specific function within the overall test sheet system.
2Measurement precision
If the reference images are made longer in the conveyance direction to improve detection accuracy, then the sensor can more reliably detect the reference images, but the amount of developer increases causing incomplete fixing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reference image design into two categories: first reference images with extended length for detection purposes, and second reference images with controlled length for fixing quality. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing each type to fulfill its specific requirement without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
First reference images use excessive length (greater than minimum required) to ensure detection accuracy, while second reference images use partial action (reduced length) to guarantee complete fixing. The system accepts that first reference images may have incomplete fixing as long as detection is accurate, while second reference images prioritize fixing completeness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the amount of developer varies due to environmental conditions, then image forming conditions change, but the fixing device cannot adapt to ensure complete fixing of reference images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of reference image length to adapt to environmental conditions affecting developer amount. By providing both longer first reference images and shorter second reference images, the system can select the appropriate type based on environmental conditions, maintaining reliable fixing across varying temperatures and humidity levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects between first and second test sheets based on environmental conditions and developer characteristics. This dynamic approach allows the image forming apparatus to adapt to changing conditions while ensuring reference images are always completely fixed, regardless of developer amount variations.
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 ensures high accuracy in detecting reference images and determining measurement image timing, enabling effective image quality adjustment control by preventing erroneous detection and ensuring consistent image formation across varying environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the fixing device fixes the image onto the sheet by applying heat and pressure
Implementation Method 2
measuring, based on a first measurement result corresponding to a measurement result of the first test sheet measured by the measurement unit
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a conversion unit, an image forming unit, a controller, a conveyance unit, a measurement unit, a determination unit, an adjustment unit, and a generation unit. The conversion unit converts image data based on conversion condition. The image forming unit forms and fixes an image to a sheet. The controller controls to create first and second test sheets having respective reference and measurement images. The first and second test sheets are conveyed. The test images are measured. The determination unit determines first and second information regarding positions. The adjustment unit adjusts an image forming condition based the measured test images. The conversion condition is generated based on a second measurement result. A first reference image length in a direction in which the first test sheet is conveyed is longer than a second reference image length in a direction in which the second test sheet is conveyed.