Image Processing Mode Switching for Invisible-Light Color Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing systems require manual switching between visible and invisible light settings, leading to unnatural coloring and user discomfort when outputting images with invisible light.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus with a switching unit that automatically switches to a single-color image generation mode when using invisible light, utilizing an image sensor sensitive to both visible and invisible light wavelengths, and a controller to manage this switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If visible light image generation mode is used for invisible light output, then the image processing can be performed with standard color settings, but the output image appearance becomes unnaturally colored and different from the original object

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage processing simplicityVSAvoidimage color accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The image processing system dynamically switches between color image generation mode and single-color image generation mode based on the selected light type (visible or invisible). This dynamic adaptation ensures that the appropriate processing mode is applied for each imaging condition, resolving the contradiction between processing simplicity and color accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the image generation parameter (color mode vs. single-color mode) according to the light type being used. When invisible light is selected, the system switches to single-color mode to maintain accurate representation of the original object's appearance, while visible light uses standard color mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual switching between visible and invisible light settings is required, then the system can maintain flexibility, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight type flexibilityVSAvoidsetting switching convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically determines and switches to the appropriate image generation mode based on the selected operating mode (visible or invisible light). This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual setting changes, allowing the system to adapt to different light types automatically while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from the selected operating mode to automatically adjust the image generation settings. When the operating mode changes between visible and invisible light, the system receives this feedback and automatically switches the image processing mode accordingly, resolving the contradiction between versatility and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If automatic mode switching is implemented, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic setting switchingVSAvoidswitching control mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensor is designed to be universally sensitive to both visible light and invisible light wavelengths, allowing a single device to perform multiple imaging functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized sensors and simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling automatic mode switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges the visible light and invisible light imaging capabilities into a single integrated system with unified control. By combining these functions and using a common image sensor that responds to both wavelength ranges, the system achieves automatic mode switching without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Ensures images generated with invisible light match the original appearance, preventing unnatural coloring and enhancing user experience by automatically adjusting the image generation mode.

Implementation Method 1

an image sensor having sensitivity to a visible light wavelength range and an invisible light wavelength range

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250227189A1Image processing apparatus, reading device, image forming apparatus, image processing method, and recording medium
Publication Date: 2025.07.10 RICOH CO LTD
  • US20250227189A1 patent drawing
  • US20250227189A1 patent drawing
  • US20250227189A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes: a light source to irradiate an object with at least invisible light: an image sensor having sensitivity to a visible light wavelength range and an invisible light wavelength range: an image processor to generate an image according to image information that is output by the image sensor: a switching unit to switch the image processor to a single-color image generation mode in which a single-color image is generated. the single-color image being an image of a single color: and a controller to control the switching unit to switch the image processor to the single-color image generation mode in response to selection of an operating mode in which the invisible light is emitted.