Inline Scanner Output Error Detection for Printed Image Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses lack the capability to accurately detect and correct errors in the output of printed images, particularly on reusable papers and those not conforming to the set template form, leading to suboptimal printing quality.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates an inline scanner and a processor that compares original and printed image information, including size, direction, and template form, to detect errors and adjust tray settings or notify the user of issues, enabling re-output or error notification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an image forming apparatus prints on reusable papers or non-template conforming papers, then printing versatility is improved, but printing quality and accuracy deteriorate due to inability to detect errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the inline scanner captures the printed output and compares it with the original print data. The processor detects discrepancies between expected and actual output, then provides feedback by notifying users or performing re-output. This closed-loop feedback system enables error detection on diverse paper types, maintaining printing quality while supporting versatile paper usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical quality control methods with an optical detection system. Instead of relying on physical template matching or manual inspection, the inline scanner uses optical scanning to capture printed images, and the processor uses digital image processing and comparison algorithms to detect errors. This substitution enables automated error detection across various paper types without requiring physical templates.
2Device complexity
If traditional printing systems are used without inline scanning, then device complexity is reduced, but error detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the scanning function directly into the printing pathway by placing an inline scanner within the image forming apparatus. This integration combines the printing mechanism with the detection mechanism in a single unified system. The scanner is positioned to capture printed output immediately after printing, eliminating the need for separate external scanning equipment while enabling continuous error detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming apparatus performs self-diagnosis and self-validation by incorporating the inline scanner and processor that automatically compare printed output with original data. The system serves itself by detecting its own printing errors without requiring external quality control equipment or manual inspection, thereby maintaining operational simplicity while achieving accurate error detection.
3Manufacturing precision
If inline scanner and error detection system are added, then printing quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary error detection by capturing the printed output immediately after printing using the inline scanner, before the printed material leaves the apparatus. The processor compares the captured image with the original print data and identifies errors in real-time. This preliminary detection approach enables immediate error identification and correction notifications, maintaining high printing quality without requiring complex post-printing inspection systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An example image forming apparatus that detects an error of an image formed on a printing medium, the apparatus includes a print engine, an inline scanner located at an output end of the print engine, and a processor. The processor is to obtain information of print data of a received print job, form an image on a printing medium based on the print data by using the print engine, obtain information of a print image of the printing medium on which the image is formed by using the inline scanner, detect whether normal output is performed by comparing the information of the print data with the information of the print image, and, in a case where the normal output is not detected, detect an output error and perform re-output.