Paper Thickness Estimation via Transmitted Color Values
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating paper thickness in image processing apparatuses require multiple measurements with different background colors, leading to increased time and effort, especially when a black background plate is used.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that uses a reader to obtain color values from both sides of a paper sheet, including a colorimetric value and RGB values, to estimate paper thickness based on a predetermined table, eliminating the need for multiple background color switches and allowing simultaneous color management functions like verification and calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple measurements with different background colors are performed to estimate paper thickness, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from measuring the same side of the paper with different backgrounds to measuring different sides of the paper with a single white background. By reading the image side through the paper from the opposite side, the system extracts thickness information from the optical properties of light transmission through the paper, eliminating the need for multiple background color measurements while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts thickness information from the color values obtained during normal single-sided reading operations. By analyzing the relationship between the image color values and the ground color values read through the paper, the system derives thickness data as a byproduct of the reading process, without requiring additional measurement steps or background color changes.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurements with different background colors are performed to estimate paper thickness, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the third dimension of light transmission through the paper by reading from the opposite side. This dimensional approach allows the system to obtain thickness information from the attenuation of light as it passes through the paper, providing accurate thickness measurement without requiring multiple background color switches or complex measurement sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The reading unit performs multiple functions simultaneously: it reads the image on one side of the paper for normal processing, reads the ground color through the paper for thickness estimation, and provides color correction data. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate thickness measurement mechanisms or multiple background plate configurations, simplifying the overall device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If paper thickness is estimated using traditional methods, then color correction accuracy is improved, but the risk of paper misinsertion increases due to extended measurement time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs thickness estimation as part of the initial reading process before color correction is applied. By obtaining thickness information from the first reading operation that reads both the image and ground color values, the system has thickness data ready for immediate color correction table selection, eliminating delays that could lead to paper misinsertion while ensuring accurate color correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous operation by performing thickness estimation, color correction table selection, and color correction in an uninterrupted sequence. The reading unit continuously acquires data from both the image side and ground color side, and the control unit continuously processes this data to maintain the appropriate color correction table, ensuring both accuracy and operational reliability without pauses that could cause misinsertion.
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 efficient paper thickness estimation without requiring multiple measurements, allowing for proper color correction and reducing the risk of paper misinsertion, while performing color verification and calibration, all without additional sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a reader that reads a paper sheet with a background plate serving as a background
Implementation Method 2
obtains, from the reader, a first color value in which an image on one side of the paper sheet is read, a second color value in which a ground color of the other side of the paper sheet is read
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes: a reader that reads a paper sheet with a background plate serving as a background; and a hardware processor, wherein the hardware processor: obtains, from the reader, a first color value in which an image on one side of the paper sheet is read, a second color value in which a ground color of the other side of the paper sheet is read, and a third color value in which a portion corresponding to the image on the other side of the paper sheet is read; and estimates a thickness of the paper sheet on the basis of the first to third color values while referring to a predetermined table.