Line Sensor Sheet Detection Amid Conveying Belt Defects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately distinguishing between sheets and surface defects on conveying belts, leading to erroneous sheet detection and improper image formation timing.
Innovation Solution
An image processing method that analyzes line image data from a line sensor to identify unique pixel values outside an allowable range and determines the presence of sheets by counting consecutive unique data, while also assessing belt abnormalities to prevent erroneous detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a reflective optical sensor is used to detect sheets on the conveying belt, then sheet detection capability is improved, but erroneous detection of surface defects as sheets occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters used for detection by analyzing multiple parameters simultaneously (pixel value distribution, continuity in conveyance direction, width in belt direction) rather than relying on a single parameter. This multi-parameter analysis approach transforms the detection method to distinguish sheets from surface defects more reliably
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the detection process into multiple analysis stages: first analyzing pixel value distribution characteristics, then checking continuity in the conveyance direction, and finally verifying width in the belt direction. This segmentation of detection criteria enables systematic discrimination between sheets and defects
2Productivity
If simple sheet detection methods are used, then detection speed is improved, but accuracy in distinguishing sheets from belt defects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of pixel value distribution characteristics before making the final sheet detection determination. By pre-analyzing the statistical properties of detected pixels and comparing them against expected sheet characteristics, the system prepares discrimination criteria in advance, enabling both speed and accuracy in the final detection decision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces simple optical detection with a comprehensive image processing and analysis system that uses computational methods to analyze pixel distributions, continuity, and geometric characteristics. This substitution of mechanical/optical detection with computational analysis enables accurate discrimination while maintaining detection speed
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Accurately detects sheet presence and distinguishes surface defects, ensuring precise image formation timing and preventing damage from severe belt defects.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective optical sensor may be arranged opposite the conveying belt. A control portion is known that determines the presence or absence of the sheet on the conveying belt and a defect in the conveying belt depending on a detection level of reflected light by the reflective optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A line sensor is arranged at a specific position along a conveying belt. The processor processes a plurality of line image data sequentially obtained by the line sensor. The processor determines whether or not each of the plurality of line image data is unique data that includes a plurality of unique pixel values, which are pixel values outside an allowable range, and a number of the plurality of unique pixel values exceeds a reference pixel number. The processor detects that a sheet has reached the specific position when a number of consecutive unique data in the plurality of line image data reaches a reference consecutive number.