Image Forming Apparatus Toner Adhesion Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently adjusting toner adhesion amounts across the photoreceptor in the main scanning direction, leading to uneven wear and potential low toner density in images, with existing solutions either requiring excessive time for adjustment or failing to correct large inclinations in wear.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a dual adjustment process, using a first image formation condition determined from multiple points to adjust toner adhesion amounts and a second condition based on a single point, with the hardware processor executing these processes at specific timings to optimize toner adhesion and correct wear inclinations efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple IDC sensors are arranged in the main scanning direction to detect toner adhesion amounts at multiple points, then toner adhesion amount correction accuracy is improved, but adjustment time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the adjustment process into two distinct types: first adjustment process using multiple IDC sensors for comprehensive detection, and second adjustment process using a single IDC sensor for rapid detection. This segmentation allows the system to choose the appropriate adjustment method based on current conditions, balancing accuracy and time efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using only one IDC sensor (second adjustment process) when rapid adjustment is needed, rather than always using all sensors. This partial use of measurement resources reduces adjustment time while maintaining sufficient accuracy for most cases.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple IDC sensors are used to detect toner adhesion amounts at multiple points, then wear inclination correction is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the sensor selection dynamic rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically chooses between first adjustment process (multiple sensors) and second adjustment process (single sensor) based on detection results and current adjustment needs, reducing operational complexity while maintaining correction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the single IDC sensor position universal by enabling it to serve multiple functions: it can be used alone for rapid adjustment or in combination with other sensors for comprehensive detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for complex sensor arrangements while maintaining correction accuracy.
3Productivity
If a single IDC sensor position is used for adjustment, then adjustment time is shortened, but toner adhesion amount correction accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses partial action by deploying only one IDC sensor for the second adjustment process when rapid adjustment is prioritized. This partial measurement approach achieves sufficient accuracy for maintaining toner adhesion within acceptable ranges while significantly improving adjustment speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of adjustment priority based on operational context. When time efficiency is prioritized, the system uses single-sensor adjustment with relaxed accuracy requirements. When high precision is needed, the system switches to multi-sensor adjustment, effectively changing the accuracy parameter based on operational needs.
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 significantly reduces the time required for toner adhesion adjustments while ensuring accurate correction of toner adhesion amounts, maintaining image quality by addressing uneven wear across the photoreceptor.
Implementation Method 1
The IDC sensor is realized by, for example, a reflective photosensor
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming part that forms a toner image on a recording medium; and a hardware processor that controls the image forming part, wherein the image forming part includes an image carrier, the hardware processor executes: a first adjustment process of adjusting the image forming part with use of a first image formation condition determined in accordance with a toner adhesion amount at a plurality of points in a first direction on the image carrier; and a second adjustment process of adjusting the image forming part with use of a second image formation condition determined in accordance with a toner adhesion amount at one point in a first direction on the image carrier, the image carrier rotates as a recording medium is conveyed, the first direction is a direction intersecting with a rotational direction of the image carrier.