Inkjet Printer Conveying Controller Eccentricity Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet printing apparatuses face challenges in achieving high-quality images due to inaccuracies in conveying the printing medium, primarily caused by the eccentricity of rollers and errors in outer diameter, leading to uneven dot formation and streaks, especially when the number of nozzles is reduced.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet printing apparatus with a conveying controller that adjusts correction values based on actual conveying errors, using test patterns to determine and apply correction values for eccentricity and outer diameter, ensuring precise conveying and maintaining image quality across different printing areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of nozzles is reduced to improve productivity or reduce device complexity, then printing speed or apparatus simplicity increases, but image quality deteriorates due to conveying inaccuracies becoming more prominent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting correction values based on the number of nozzles used. When fewer nozzles are employed, the system modifies conveying correction parameters to compensate for reduced resolution, thereby maintaining image quality while benefiting from higher printing speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the conveying controller monitors printing conditions and adjusts correction values accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that when nozzle count is reduced, the system automatically compensates by modifying conveying parameters to maintain dot formation accuracy and image quality
2Manufacturing precision
If correction values are adjusted for different phases of conveying roller rotation, then conveying accuracy improves, but device complexity increases due to additional control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing correction values for different phases of conveying roller rotation in advance. During actual printing, the system simply retrieves the appropriate correction value based on the current phase, avoiding complex real-time calculations and reducing control system complexity while maintaining high conveying accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making correction values variable based on the rotational phase of the conveying roller. The system dynamically selects different correction values corresponding to different phases of roller rotation, thereby maintaining conveying accuracy without requiring complex mechanical adjustments
3Manufacturing precision
If the conveying roller has perfect circular cross-section with aligned axes to eliminate eccentricity, then conveying precision improves, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the blessing in disguise principle by accepting that perfect circular rollers with aligned axes are difficult to manufacture, and instead converts this manufacturing challenge into a beneficial control strategy. The system measures actual conveying errors and applies correction values that compensate for inherent imperfections, transforming the manufacturing difficulty into an opportunity for sophisticated error compensation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical precision requirements with control-based solutions. Instead of relying on perfectly manufactured rollers, the system uses software-based correction values to achieve the desired conveying precision, substituting mechanical perfection with intelligent control
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a printing apparatus and a conveying-error controlling method capable of printing a high-quality image by correction reflecting the conveying amount of a printing medium. A provided inkjet printing apparatus prints images by printing scans for actual printing and by conveying the printing medium with a roller orthogonally to the printing-scan direction. In each printing scan, the printing medium is scanned with a print head having an array of nozzles from which the ink is ejected. The print head moving direction differs from the arranging direction of the nozzles in the array. The apparatus includes a conveying controller to control the conveying of the printing medium on the basis of a correction value used to correct a conveying error of the roller. The conveying controller changes the correction value to be applied in accordance with the conveying amount of the printing medium between two scans with the print head.