Image Processing Apparatus Calibration Control Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mixed-color calibration in image processing apparatuses requires a large number of patch images, leading to prolonged calibration times and unnecessary operator intervention, as it is difficult to determine when time-consuming calibration is necessary.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus with a first determination unit to assess the difference between measured chart results and target values, and a control unit to decide on calibration execution based on these results, reducing the need for unnecessary calibration by using a status check chart and determining the necessity of calibration before proceeding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mixed-color calibration is performed using a large number of patch images, then calibration accuracy is improved, but calibration time increases remarkably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration process into two distinct phases: a quick status check using a simplified measurement chart with fewer patches, and a comprehensive mixed-color calibration using the full set of patch images. This segmentation allows the system to perform rapid preliminary checks and only execute time-consuming full calibration when actually necessary, thus resolving the contradiction between calibration accuracy and calibration time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a preliminary status check calibration that assesses whether full mixed-color calibration is needed before executing it. By performing this preliminary assessment with a simplified measurement chart, the system can avoid unnecessary time-consuming full calibrations while ensuring calibration accuracy is maintained when actually required.
2Reliability
If operator periodically executes calibration to prevent variation, then reproduction characteristics stability is improved, but time loss increases when calibration is not necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the calibration system to self-assess whether calibration is necessary through automated status checks using the simplified measurement chart. The system independently determines when full calibration is needed based on measured values compared to reference values, eliminating the need for operators to periodically execute calibration regardless of actual need, thus reducing time loss while maintaining reproduction characteristics stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the status check calibration results are used to determine whether full mixed-color calibration should be executed. The system continuously monitors reproduction characteristics through quick status checks and only triggers time-consuming full calibration when deviations exceed predetermined thresholds, optimizing the balance between reliability and time efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If mixed-color calibration is executed frequently, then calibration accuracy is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic calibration strategy where the system adaptively adjusts calibration frequency and depth based on actual needs. Through continuous status checks using the simplified measurement chart, the system dynamically determines when full mixed-color calibration is necessary, performing it only when reproduction characteristics deviate beyond acceptable thresholds, thus maintaining calibration accuracy while maximizing productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes a first determination unit configured to determine whether a difference between the result of measuring a first chart formed by an image forming unit and a target value is larger than a first preset threshold value, and a control unit configured to, based on a result of determination by the determination unit, control execution of correction of reproduction characteristics of an image formed by the image forming unit by using the result of measuring a second chart formed by the image forming unit and the target value.