MFD Imaging Alignment Verification Using CVT Platen Mark
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-function devices (MFDs) face challenges in detecting and correcting misalignments of imaging components, which can lead to defects in reproduced images, such as skewing or being off-center, due to component failure or mishandling, making it difficult to determine the severity of misalignment and appropriate corrective actions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that generate an alignment image using an alignment mark on the CVT platen glass, determine misalignment of the illumination profile area, sensor position, and CVT, and provide corrective actions through a display to align these components, including a processor, sensor, light source, and reflectors, to ensure proper imaging position verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If alignment verification is performed using traditional methods, then misalignment detection is possible, but the process is complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an alignment mark attached to the CVT platen glass that creates a simplified alignment image when scanned. This alignment mark serves as a reference copy that makes the complex alignment verification process simple and intuitive, allowing users to easily detect misalignment without complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment verification process utilizes visual indicators where the alignment image displays specific patterns or positions that indicate proper or improper alignment. The system provides visual feedback through the alignment image that makes misalignment detection straightforward, similar to using color-coded indicators
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional alignment methods are used, then component alignment can be achieved, but corrective actions are difficult to determine and implement
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback by generating an alignment image that shows the actual alignment status of imaging components. Based on the alignment image analysis, the system determines misalignment and provides specific corrective actions, creating a closed-loop feedback system that guides users through precise corrective measures
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment verification system enables users to perform self-diagnosis and self-correction of imaging component alignment. By providing clear alignment images and automated misalignment determination, the system allows users to identify and correct alignment issues without requiring complex external assistance
3Productivity
If imaging components are not regularly verified, then device operation continues, but image quality deteriorates due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary alignment verification before actual imaging operations. By attaching an alignment mark to the CVT platen glass and performing verification scans, users can proactively detect and correct misalignment issues before they affect production image quality, ensuring reliability while maintaining productivity
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
This solution simplifies the detection of misalignment and provides precise corrective actions, ensuring accurate alignment of imaging components, thereby preventing defects in reproduced images and improving image quality.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging components may include a light source that can be directed towards a document on a platen glass. The light may be reflected at varying levels of brightness depending on the images on the document
Implementation Method 2
The different levels of reflected light may be measured by a sensor. The measurements from the sensor can then be converted into digital values that can digitally represent the images on the document
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed. For example, the method executed by a processor of a multi-function device (MFD) includes generating an alignment image based on execution of a copy function while an alignment mark is attached to a continuous velocity transport (CVT) platen glass of a CVT of the MFD, determining a misalignment of an illumination profile area, a position of a sensor, and the CVT based on the alignment image, and providing a corrective action to perform an alignment of at least one of the illumination profile area, the position of the sensor, and the CVT via a display of the MFD.