Imaging Sensor Pattern Detection for Accurate Media Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scanners face challenges with hardware-based media detection systems due to high costs, limited color scan capabilities, reduced edge detection reliability, sensitivity to media type, and dependency on document content, leading to inaccurate media positioning and increased print defects.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing an imaging sensor to capture images of a pattern with specific CIE L*a*b* values, such as a sticker, to determine media position by analyzing property values and comparing them with learned data, reducing the need for hardware components and improving detection accuracy across various media types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardware-based media detection systems are used, then media position detection can be performed, but the cost increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hardware-based mechanical detection systems with an imaging sensor that captures images of a pattern on the media. The media position is determined by analyzing property values (such as CIE L*a*b* color values) from the captured pattern images, eliminating the need for complex hardware detection components and improving reliability through software-based analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a captured image copy of the pattern on the media as the detection mechanism. Instead of direct hardware sensing, the imaging sensor creates an optical copy (image) of the pattern, which is then analyzed to determine media position. This approach simplifies the detection system while maintaining accurate position detection.
2Measurement precision
If hardware-based detection is used, then media detection can be performed, but the cost and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes hardware-based detection with an imaging sensor system that captures and analyzes pattern images. The measurement precision is maintained through sophisticated image analysis algorithms that extract property values from the captured pattern, replacing complex hardware with a combination of simple imaging and advanced software processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent analyzes multiple property values (such as CIE L*a*b* color parameters) from the captured pattern images to determine media position. By changing from single-parameter hardware detection to multi-parameter image analysis, the system achieves high precision while reducing hardware complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional imaging without pattern is used, then scan modes are limited, but adding pattern analysis requires additional processing
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging sensor serves multiple functions: it captures images for traditional scanning purposes and simultaneously captures images of the pattern for media position detection. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to support various scan modes while providing accurate media positioning without requiring additional dedicated detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the media position detection function with the existing imaging and scanning functions. The pattern analysis is integrated into the normal imaging workflow, allowing the system to perform both traditional scanning and media detection using the same imaging sensor and processing pipeline, thereby increasing versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
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
This method enhances media detection accuracy, reduces hardware costs, and minimizes print defects by allowing for a wider range of scan modes, improved edge detection, and reduced dependency on document content.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging sensor to capture images of a pattern with specific CIE L*a*b* values
Data Source
AI summary
According to examples, an apparatus may include a processor and a memory on which are stored computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, may cause the processor to identify first property values along an image of a pattern. The first property values may be identified based on a first signal corresponding to an image of the pattern captured by an imaging sensor. The pattern may be positioned at a spaced relation with respect to the imaging sensor. The processor may receive a second signal corresponding to a second image captured by the imaging sensor, and may identify, from the second signal, second property values along the second image. Based on a determination that the second property values differ from the first property values, the processor may determine that a beginning of a media is positioned to be imaged by the imaging sensor.