Nozzle Row Grouping for Variable Image Layer Thickness
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in maintaining optimal coloring properties when images are viewed under different light conditions, as the thickness of subsidiary images affects the visibility and quality of main images, leading to deteriorated coloring properties.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a nozzle row group comprising a first nozzle row for the main image and a second nozzle row for the subsidiary image, where both rows are divided into multiple nozzle groups, allowing for adjustable layer formation based on light viewing conditions, with a control unit managing the dot formation and movement to optimize image overlap and thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the subsidiary image is made thicker to improve coloring property when front face is irradiated with light, then the coloring property of the main image is improved, but the coloring property deteriorates when the back face is irradiated with light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the number of layers of the subsidiary image changeable according to different viewing conditions. The control unit switches between a first mode (with a first number of layers) when the front face is irradiated with light, and a second mode (with a second number of layers different from the first) when the back face is irradiated with light. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by adapting the subsidiary image thickness to the specific lighting condition, ensuring satisfactory coloring property in both scenarios.
2Manufacturing precision
If the number of layers of the subsidiary image is increased to improve image quality, then the coloring property is improved, but the light transmission is reduced when viewed from the front
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the number of layers of the subsidiary image based on the viewing condition. When the front face is irradiated with light, a first number of layers is used to achieve satisfactory coloring property. When the back face is irradiated with light, a second number of layers (different from the first) is used to optimize both coloring property and light transmission. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by finding the optimal balance between coloring property and light transmission for each specific condition.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a nozzle row group that is provided with a first nozzle row and a second nozzle row, and a control unit that performs a dot forming operation of ejecting a liquid from nozzles to form dots. The control unit divides the first nozzle row and the second nozzle row into N nozzle groups when the dot forming operation is performed. In a first mode, A nozzle groups of N nozzle groups of the second nozzle row and (N−A) nozzle groups of the first nozzle row are employed. In a second mode, B (A≠B) nozzle groups of N nozzle groups of the second nozzle row and (N−B) nozzle groups of the first nozzle row are employed.