Image Deviation Detection in Inkjet Recording Heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image deviation detection techniques face challenges in accurately detecting the deviation amount of images formed during the image formation process, particularly when liquid discharge from nozzles is deflected.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus and method that includes a recording head with multiple nozzles, where a reference adjustment pattern is printed using a reference nozzle, and an adjustment pattern is printed using a designated nozzle, with the processing circuitry determining the standard deviation of the distance between these patterns to assess deviation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional image deviation detection techniques are used, then the detection process is simple, but the detection precision deteriorates when liquid discharge from nozzles is deflected
Solution Approach 1:
The detection pattern is divided into multiple segments (first detection pattern, second detection pattern, third detection pattern) printed by different nozzles. By segmenting the detection process across multiple nozzles and comparing their respective patterns, the system can detect liquid discharge deflection more accurately without requiring complex external detection equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the detected deviation information from the segmented patterns to provide feedback for correcting liquid discharge deflection. The processing circuitry calculates deviation amounts based on position information from multiple detection patterns and uses this feedback to adjust nozzle positioning, thereby improving detection precision while maintaining a relatively simple detection methodology.
2Measurement precision
If multiple nozzles are used for pattern printing to improve detection accuracy, then the detection precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same recording head with multiple nozzles serves dual purposes: it performs both the imaging function (printing detection patterns) and the deviation detection function (creating reference and comparison patterns). This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high detection accuracy without adding separate complex detection devices, as the nozzles themselves generate the detection patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-prints detection patterns at specific positions using designated nozzles before actual image formation. These preliminary patterns serve as reference markers that enable subsequent deviation measurements. By performing this pattern printing action in advance, the system establishes a baseline for detecting liquid discharge deflection without requiring complex real-time measurement systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a recording head and processing circuitry. The recording head includes a plurality of nozzles. The processing circuitry prints a reference adjustment pattern on a recording medium using a reference nozzle, which is one of the nozzles. When the recording medium is conveyed from the reference nozzle in a sub-scanning direction by a predetermined conveyance amount, the processing circuitry prints an adjustment pattern on the recording medium using a designated nozzle, which is apart by a predetermined distance with respect to a nozzle apart from the reference nozzle in the sub scanning direction by the predetermined conveyance amount. The processing circuitry detects the reference adjustment pattern and the adjustment pattern, computes a distance between the reference adjustment pattern and the adjustment pattern in the sub-scanning direction, and determines whether a standard deviation of the distance computed is equal to or larger than a predetermined value.