Inkjet Printer Ejection Timing Correction via Density Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet printers with multiple outlet rows struggle to maintain accurate ejection timing between rows, leading to image quality degradation due to varying ink ejection characteristics, requiring complex and time-consuming correction methods.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet printer system with a control mechanism that adjusts the ejection timing of secondary outlet rows relative to primary rows by measuring densities in check regions and using shift amounts to correct timing, allowing for automatic and precise timing adjustments across multiple heads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the ejection timing of the second outlet row is adjusted individually based on space and relative movement speed, then the theoretical positioning accuracy is improved, but the actual image quality degrades due to varying ink ejection characteristics of each outlet row
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the ejection timing parameter for the second outlet row based on measured actual dot positions. By measuring the distance between dots from the first and second outlet rows and calculating the required timing adjustment, the system adapts the ejection timing parameter to compensate for variations in ink ejection characteristics, thereby resolving the contradiction between theoretical positioning accuracy and actual image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual dot positions are measured, the distance between dots from different outlet rows is calculated, and this measurement feedback is used to adjust the ejection timing. The system records the maximum density check region and uses this information to determine the appropriate timing correction, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures reliable image quality
2Ease of operation
If the ejection timing is not appropriately adjusted, then the device operation is simple, but the dots from the first and second outlet rows are spaced apart causing image quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to automatically perform timing correction without requiring manual observation under a loupe or microscope. The control part automatically measures dot positions, calculates timing adjustments, and applies corrections based on the maximum density check region, making the system self-correcting and eliminating complex manual operations while maintaining high precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts the ejection timing parameter based on measured dot positions and calculated shift amounts. By changing the timing parameter dynamically according to actual measurements, the system achieves precise dot placement without requiring complex manual intervention, thus maintaining both ease of operation and manufacturing precision
3Manufacturing precision
If the ejection timing is corrected by recording test patterns and observing under a loupe or microscope, then the ejection timing can be adjusted, but the correction process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical measurement method (using a loupe or microscope to observe test patterns) with an automated detection system. The control part automatically measures dot positions, calculates distances, determines the maximum density check region, and computes timing corrections without requiring manual observation, thereby dramatically reducing correction time while maintaining or improving accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement and self-correction of ejection timing. By automatically recording test patterns, measuring dot positions, calculating timing adjustments, and applying corrections without external intervention, the system eliminates the time-consuming manual correction process while achieving high precision timing adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A head includes first and second outlet rows, and records uniform images in check regions. In each uniform image, a combination of a first dot row formed with the first outlet row and a second dot row formed with the second outlet row while being spaced apart from the first dot row in a movement direction is repeatedly arranged with a repeat pitch in its direction. When recording the uniform image in each check region, a distance obtained by changing a reference distance, which is half the repeat pitch, by a set shift amount is assigned as a distance between each first dot row and each second dot row, the set shift amount being progressively changed for the check regions. A maximum density check region is specified, and ejection timing of the second outlet row is corrected based on the set shift amount corresponding to the maximum density check region.