Inkjet Recording Device Dot Misalignment Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink jet printing systems face challenges in accurately detecting and correcting misalignment of images due to subjective human judgment, leading to inconsistent results.
Innovation Solution
A recording device with a nozzle line, carriage, transfer device, ejection control system, two-dimensional sensor, analyzer, and detection device that forms and analyzes detection patterns to precisely detect misalignment using two-dimensional frequency characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If misalignment detection is performed by observation with the naked eye, then the process is simple and easy to operate, but the detection accuracy is low and results vary depending on the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual observation system with an automated image processing system. A two-dimensional sensor captures images of the detection pattern, and a computer automatically analyzes these images to detect misalignment. This substitution eliminates subjective human judgment while maintaining operational simplicity through automated processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a detection pattern as an intermediary element between the printing process and the measurement system. This pattern serves as a reference standard that mediates the comparison between forward and backward printing positions, enabling objective and precise misalignment detection through image analysis.
2Measurement precision
If a detection pattern is formed and analyzed using image processing, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the detection pattern to serve multiple functions: it acts as a reference for misalignment detection, provides calibration information for the imaging system, and enables verification of printing quality. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components while maintaining high detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection pattern is designed to be self-contained with built-in reference marks and geometric features that automatically provide the necessary measurement information. The system uses its own printed pattern as the reference standard, eliminating the need for external calibration tools or additional reference components.
3Measurement precision
If multiple dot groups are formed at different positions and timings, then the detection precision of misalignment is improved, but the productivity decreases due to additional printing steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent forms multiple dot groups at different positions and timings than would be required for normal printing. This excessive action creates redundant measurement points that improve detection precision by providing multiple data points for analysis, while the actual printing process can proceed using standard parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection pattern is segmented into multiple dot groups distributed across different regions of the recording medium. Each dot group provides independent measurement information, and the segmentation allows parallel analysis of different areas, improving overall detection precision without requiring sequential processing of the entire pattern.
Data Source
AI summary
A recording device having a recording head including a nozzle line that eject ink from nozzles arranged in a transfer direction of a recording medium, a carriage, a moving device that moves the carriage forward and backward, a transfer device that transfers the recording medium, an ejection control device that forms a detection pattern by ejecting the ink, a two-dimensional sensor that detects the detection pattern, an analyzer that analyzes the image data of the detection pattern, and a detection device that detects misalignment of the printed dots, the ejection control device having a first dot group formation device that forms a first dot group, a second dot group formation device that forms a second dot group, and a third dot group formation device that forms a third dot group, the detection pattern being formed of the first dot group, the second dot group, and the third dot group.