Image Reading Apparatus Shading Correction via Segmented Holding Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image reading apparatuses, such as copiers and scanners, face issues with uneven image concentration due to variations in imaging devices and light sources, and cutting apparatuses have holding members that become contaminated and require frequent replacement, increasing costs due to accumulated debris and scratches.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an image reading apparatus with multiple holding members, one for cutting and another for reading, where the reading-use holding member includes a reference portion for shading correction, allowing for automatic identification and correction based on the type of holding member used, reducing the need for frequent replacements and improving image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reference member is provided on the holding member for shading correction, then shading correction can be performed, but the holding member becomes contaminated by cutting debris and requires frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member is divided into two separate functional parts: a holding portion that contacts the workpiece during cutting and is replaceable, and a reference portion that contains the reference member for shading correction and remains fixed. This segmentation allows the reference member to be protected from cutting debris while the holding portion can be replaced when contaminated.
Solution Approach 2:
A cover member is introduced as an intermediary protective element that covers the reference portion during cutting operations. This cover prevents cutting debris from contaminating the reference member while allowing the reference member to be exposed when needed for shading correction.
2Measurement precision
If multiple types of holding members are used, then appropriate shading correction can be performed for each type, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different holding member types are identified by color-coded indicators (e.g., white indicator for first type, black indicator for second type). The image reading unit detects these color indicators to automatically identify the holding member type and select the appropriate shading correction data, simplifying the system while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the image reading unit that detects the indicator on the holding member to automatically determine which shading correction data to apply. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures the correct correction is applied without user intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus including an image reading unit configured to read an image of a workpiece; a plurality of holding members each configured to hold the workpiece while image reading is performed by the image reading unit and each including an indicator identifying a type of holding member; an identification unit configured to identify the type of holding member based on a result of reading of the indicator by the image reading unit; and a correction unit configured to perform a shading correction of the image read by the image reading unit based on a result of identification by the identification unit.