Image Reading Apparatus Diagnostic Pattern Orientation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnosing defects in image forming and reading apparatuses requires multiple read images with different orientations, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive for users.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus with a reading unit that reads images by relative movement, featuring an in-paper region for the actual image and an out-of-paper region with specific diagnostic images for distinguishing between defects caused by the image forming or reading apparatus, allowing for efficient diagnosis using a single read image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple read images with different orientations are used to diagnose defects, then the accuracy of determining whether a defect is caused by the image forming apparatus or image reading apparatus is improved, but the time and effort required for users to prepare the read images increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-providing a test pattern on the paper before the actual image is formed. This test pattern includes features that automatically indicate the paper's insertion orientation (such as asymmetric patterns or markers). When the paper is inserted in the correct orientation, the reading unit captures the test pattern in the expected configuration, enabling automatic orientation detection and eliminating the need for users to manually prepare multiple oriented images for diagnosis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by using the test pattern to automatically determine the paper orientation and adjust the diagnosis process accordingly. The reading unit automatically reads the test pattern, determines the correct orientation, and uses this information to properly interpret the image data for defect diagnosis. This eliminates the need for user intervention in preparing multiple oriented images, as the system self-adjusts based on the detected orientation.
2Reliability
If multiple read images with different orientations are required for defect diagnosis, then the reliability of defect cause identification is improved, but the complexity of the diagnosis process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test pattern is pre-configured on the paper with built-in orientation indicators. When the reading unit captures the image, it automatically detects the orientation based on the test pattern configuration and adjusts the diagnosis accordingly. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex multi-orientation imaging protocols, simplifying the diagnosis process while maintaining reliable defect cause identification.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the user to prepare images in multiple orientations and then analyze them, the patent inverts the approach by having the system automatically detect the single correct orientation from the test pattern and perform the diagnosis in that orientation. This inversion transforms a complex multi-step process into a simpler automatic detection and analysis workflow.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus includes a reading unit that reads an image of paper by a relative movement to the paper, an in-paper region that is a region in which the image of the paper is read by the reading unit, and an image that is provided in an out-of-paper region that is a region outside the paper and is used for diagnosing the image of the paper.