Image Reading Device Shading Correction Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image reading devices face delays in starting the reading process due to the need for acquiring white and black reference values, and using fixed black reference values regardless of device conditions leads to inadequate shading correction of image data.

Innovation Solution

An image reading device that generates dark output data based on read data from the light receiving unit when the light source is not emitting light, determines if this data falls within a prescribed range, and uses either stored reference correction data or newly generated correction data to correct the image data accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If fixed black reference values are used before reading the original document, then the reading process can start quickly, but the shading correction of image data becomes inadequate due to variations in device conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading start timeVSAvoidshading correction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic reference value selection mechanism that adapts to current device conditions. The control device determines whether to use stored reference correction data or newly generated correction data based on comparison of dark output data with reference dark output data, allowing the system to transition between static and dynamic operation modes to balance speed and accuracy requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of reference data freshness based on device conditions. When dark output data falls within a prescribed range of reference dark output data, the system uses stored reference correction data for quick operation. When the range is exceeded, the system generates new correction data to maintain accuracy, thus adapting the correction data parameter to match current device state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If white and black reference values are acquired before reading the original document, then proper shading correction can be achieved, but the reading process is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshading correction accuracyVSAvoidreading start time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by acquiring only white reference data before reading the original document, while using fixed black reference values stored beforehand. This partial acquisition approach enables the reading process to start quickly while still achieving adequate shading correction for many cases. The system then provides an option to perform full reference value acquisition when higher precision is needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Productivity

If dark output data is not checked against reference range, then the system operates faster, but image reading data cannot be properly corrected when device conditions change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidcorrection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control device continuously monitors dark output data and compares it against reference dark output data stored in the storage device. This feedback loop enables the system to detect changes in device conditions and automatically switch between using stored reference correction data and newly generated correction data, maintaining both speed and reliability through adaptive response

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables quick start-up of the reading process while ensuring proper shading correction of image data, reducing the time from user input to document reading and adapting to varying device conditions.

Implementation Method 1

The light source may be configured to emit light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Implementation Method 2

The light receiving unit may be configured to receive light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9277080B2Image reading device determining whether dark output data is within prescribed range
Publication Date: 2016.03.01 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US9277080B2 patent drawing
  • US9277080B2 patent drawing
  • US9277080B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an image reading device, a storing device stores reference dark output data and reference correction data. A control device, after a command receiving unit receives an instruction to read an original document, generates dark output data based on read data while the light source does not emit light. The control device determines whether the dark output data is within a first prescribed range into which the reference dark output data falls. The control device selects the reference correction data as selected correction data, when determining that the dark output data is within the first prescribed range. The control device generate correction data to correct the image data when determining that the dark output data is not within the first prescribed range, and selects the generated correction data as the selected correction data. The control device corrects the image data by using the selected correction data.