Image Reading Apparatus Dirt Detection via Dual Background Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading apparatuses struggle to accurately detect dirt on transparent members when debris has a density similar to the background, leading to false identification and missed detection.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus with a background section that switches between two colors, allowing the control section to compare read data with a threshold set during a threshold setting process, determining the presence of dirt based on data from both backgrounds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If white image data is used for dirt detection, then the detection process is simple, but debris with density similar to white section cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The detection process is segmented into multiple stages: first reading with white background, then reading with black background. This segmentation allows different background conditions to be used for different types of debris detection, resolving the contradiction between simple process and high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The background color parameter is changed from white to black between two reading operations. This parameter change enables the detection system to identify debris with different density characteristics, improving detection accuracy for debris that would be invisible against a white background.
2Productivity
If a single background color is used for reading, then the reading operation is fast, but dirt with similar density to background cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The reading operation is performed periodically with alternating background colors (white then black). This periodic action with different background conditions enables comprehensive dirt detection while maintaining efficient operation through automated sequential processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The first reading with white background is performed as a preliminary action to detect light-colored debris. The second reading with black background then detects dark-colored debris. This preliminary action approach ensures comprehensive detection while maintaining operational efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If dual background reading is performed, then detection accuracy for various debris densities is improved, but the detection process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reading section performs multiple functions by conducting readings with different background colors. This multi-functionality allows a single detection system to identify various types of debris (light and dark) without requiring separate specialized systems, thus improving accuracy without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system uses feedback from both white and black background readings to determine the presence of dirt. By comparing results from both background conditions, the system achieves high detection accuracy while managing complexity through systematic data processing and comparison.
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
Effectively detects dirt on transparent members by comparing read data from different backgrounds, improving detection accuracy for both dark and bright debris densities.
Implementation Method 1
a reading section that receives light input via a transparent member to perform reading
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus includes a reading section that receives light input via a transparent member to perform reading, a background section configured to switch a background facing the transparent member either to a first background that is a background of a first color or to a second background that is a background of a second color brighter than the first color, and a control section. The control section compares, with a threshold set in advance, first read data generated by causing the reading section to perform reading of the first background, compares, with the threshold, second read data generated by causing the reading section to perform reading of the second background, and, when the first read data is above the threshold or when the second read data is below the threshold, determines that dirt is present on the transparent member.