Merging Decolorable and Anti-Decolorable Units for Mixed Print Jobs
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no existing image forming apparatus or method capable of simultaneously forming images using decolorable and anti-decolorable colorants, which limits the versatility and functionality of such systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of a Multi-Function Peripheral (MFP) that integrates both decolorable and anti-decolorable image forming units, allowing for the simultaneous processing of images using decolorable ink via an inkjet method and anti-decolorable ink via electrophotography, respectively, with temperature-controlled decoloration of the decolorable ink.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an image forming apparatus uses only decolorable colorant, then rewritable print function is achieved, but permanent print function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate image forming units into a single apparatus: one unit uses decolorable colorant for rewritable prints, while the other unit uses anti-decolorable colorant for permanent prints. This merging allows the apparatus to perform both rewritable and permanent printing functions simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between versatility and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to handle different printing requirements. By integrating both decolorable and anti-decolorable colorant systems, the apparatus can universally perform various print functions including rewritable prints, permanent prints, and mixed print jobs, thereby achieving both versatility and reliable permanent printing capability.
2Reliability
If an image forming apparatus uses only anti-decolorable colorant, then permanent print function is achieved, but rewritable print function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two image forming units with different colorant types: one using decolorable colorant for rewritable prints and another using anti-decolorable colorant for permanent prints. This combination enables the apparatus to provide both permanent printing reliability and rewritable print versatility, eliminating the limitation of using only one colorant type.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities to accommodate different printing needs. By incorporating both decolorable and anti-decolorable colorant systems, the apparatus can universally perform permanent printing, rewritable printing, and mixed printing operations, thereby achieving both reliability and adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate image forming units are used for decolorable and anti-decolorable colorants, then both print functions are available, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate image forming units that process different colorants into a single integrated apparatus. By merging the decolorable and anti-decolorable colorant systems, the apparatus achieves both print functions while managing structural complexity through unified design and control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming apparatus is segmented into distinct functional units: one for decolorable colorant processing and another for anti-decolorable colorant processing. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function while the overall system maintains versatility. The segmented architecture enables independent control and processing of different colorant types.
4Ease of operation
If mixed print jobs with both decolorable and anti-decolorable colorants are supported, then user flexibility is enhanced, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow it to adapt to mixed print jobs with different colorant types. The system can dynamically adjust processing parameters, select appropriate colorants, and manage different print modes based on user requirements, thereby enhancing user flexibility while managing processing complexity through intelligent control.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming apparatus uses feedback mechanisms to detect and respond to mixed print job requirements. By monitoring print job characteristics and user inputs, the system can automatically select appropriate colorants and processing modes, simplifying the user interface while managing the complexity of processing multiple colorant types simultaneously.
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
Enables the creation of both rewritable and permanent prints within a single job, enhancing the functionality and user flexibility of the image forming system by allowing mixed print jobs with independent control over colorant types and sheet reuse.
Implementation Method 1
a decolorable colorant capable of erasing colors with chemical reaction of heat or the like
Implementation Method 2
forming an image with anti-decolorable ink by using an electrophotographic process
Implementation Method 3
forming an image with decolorable ink by using an inkjet process
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes an image forming job created and transmitted by an job creation unit including an image to be printed, a receiving unit that receives a request of print setting to the image, a display unit that displays a setting screen having a setting unit to designate a setting of rewritable print or permanent print per page in response to receive the request of print setting, a memory unit that stores the setting of rewritable print or permanent print per page set by operating the setting screen, in addition to the image as the image forming job, and an image forming unit that receives the image forming job from the job creation unit and forms images on a sheet based on the setting in the image forming job.