Image Processing Apparatus Automatic Threshold Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses require user intervention to adjust reference values for determining whether an image is color or monochrome, leading to inefficiencies in the automatic color selection (ACS) function.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that includes a processor to designate images as color or monochrome based on feature quantities and threshold values, with a storage unit for storing threshold values and a display/input device for user input to change these designations, reducing the need for user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a predetermined reference value is used for determining color/monochrome images, then the ACS function can operate automatically, but user intervention is still required to adjust the reference value when determination is incorrect
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adjusts the reference value by analyzing feature quantities from multiple images and determining an optimal threshold that minimizes user intervention. The processor self-calibrates by comparing feature quantities across images and setting the reference value automatically, allowing the ACS function to operate autonomously without requiring users to manually adjust parameters when determination errors occur
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processor analyzes the results of color/monochrome determinations and automatically adjusts the reference value based on accumulated data from multiple images. This feedback loop enables the system to learn from previous determinations and improve accuracy over time, reducing the need for manual intervention while maintaining high automation levels
2Measurement precision
If trial and error adjustment of reference value is performed, then accurate color/monochrome determination can be achieved, but operational time and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis by processing feature quantities from multiple images before final determination. The processor pre-calculates optimal reference values by analyzing color component distributions across a batch of images, establishing an accurate baseline threshold in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for trial-and-error adjustments during actual operation, maintaining high determination accuracy while significantly improving operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the reference value parameter based on analyzed feature quantities from multiple images. Instead of using a fixed predetermined value, the processor adjusts the reference value parameter automatically by analyzing color component distributions and determining the optimal threshold that best separates color and monochrome images. This parameter adaptation maintains high determination accuracy while eliminating time-consuming manual adjustments, thereby improving productivity
3Measurement precision
If multiple images are processed to determine optimal reference value, then determination accuracy improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by processing only the necessary feature quantities from multiple images rather than analyzing all image data in full detail. The processor extracts and analyzes only the color component feature quantities needed for determining the optimal reference value, performing sufficient analysis to achieve accurate determination without unnecessary excessive processing. This approach improves reference value accuracy while minimizing the time loss associated with processing multiple images
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes a processor configured to acquire an image and designate whether the image is a color image or a monochrome image based on a comparison of a feature quantity of the image and a threshold value. A storage unit stores the threshold value. A display unit displays whether the image has been designated a color image or a monochrome image by the processor. An input device is configured to receive user input for changing whether the image is designated a color image or a monochrome image. The processor changes the threshold value stored in the storage unit when the user input changes whether the image is designated a color image or a monochrome image.