Print System Calibration via Measurement Feedback Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current print systems for commercial printing lack automation in the adjustment functions of both image forming and image processing apparatuses, leading to increased operator workload and inefficiency, as existing techniques are not designed to handle image processing apparatuses without print functions.
Innovation Solution
A print system where the image forming apparatus and image processing apparatus collaborate to automate adjustment functions through a measurement unit that determines and measures print jobs, transmits results, and applies calibration data, enabling the image processing apparatus to generate and transmit measurement print jobs and apply calibration settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image processing apparatus has no print function, then it cannot perform self-measurement of printed images, but it still needs to execute the adjustment function to stabilize image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a measurement apparatus as an intermediary component that the image processing apparatus controls remotely. This measurement apparatus, equipped with a sensor, performs the actual measurement of printed images. The image processing apparatus transmits measurement instructions and receives measurement results through data transmission, enabling the adjustment function without requiring a print function in the image processing apparatus itself.
2Ease of operation
If both adjustment functions are automated using sensors, then operator workload is reduced, but the system complexity increases to coordinate measurement and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the measurement apparatus measures the actual printed image quality and transmits the measurement results back to the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus then automatically adjusts its image processing parameters based on this feedback. This closed-loop feedback system automates the adjustment process, reducing operator workload while managing system complexity through structured data transmission and automated control algorithms.
3Measurement precision
If the image forming apparatus includes a measurement apparatus, then it can perform measurement functions, but it increases the device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the measurement apparatus with multi-functionality, allowing it to serve both the image forming apparatus (by measuring its printed output) and the image processing apparatus (by providing measurement data for processing parameter optimization). The measurement apparatus acts as a shared resource that benefits both components of the print system, justifying its added complexity through enhanced measurement precision and dual-purpose utility.
Data Source
AI summary
A print apparatus includes a measurement unit that measures an image printed on a sheet, and one or more processors that execute instructions to cause the print apparatus to function as a first determination unit that determines whether or not a print job received from an image processing apparatus is a print job serving as a measurement target to be measured by the measurement unit, a control unit that causes the measurement unit to measure the image on the sheet that has been printed according to the print job determined to be the measurement target, and that controls the sheet on which the image has been measured to discharge via the paper discharge outlet, and a first transmission unit that transmits a result of measurement performed under control of the control unit to the image processing apparatus.