Printer Conveyance Correction via Density Histogram Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printing apparatuses require dedicated circuits and memory to correct analog encoder signals, leading to increased cost and complexity, while also facing challenges in maintaining high printing speed and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a first acquisition unit for conveyance operation information, a second acquisition unit for image density, and a specify unit to create histograms for deciding correction values, allowing for correction without a dedicated circuit or memory, using an existing information holding unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated circuits and memory are used to correct analog encoder signals, then conveyance accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the existing density detection unit to serve dual purposes: detecting image density during normal printing operations and collecting encoder signal data for correction analysis. The histogram collection function is integrated into the density detection unit, eliminating the need for dedicated encoder analysis hardware while maintaining conveyance accuracy through proper signal correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-correction by using the density detection unit to automatically collect and analyze encoder signal characteristics, generate correction values, and apply corrections to the conveyance control signals. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external measurement equipment and dedicated correction circuits, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated circuits and memory are used to correct analog encoder signals, then conveyance accuracy is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the existing density detection unit to serve dual purposes: detecting image density during normal printing operations and collecting encoder signal data for correction analysis. The histogram collection function is integrated into the density detection unit, eliminating the need for dedicated encoder analysis hardware while maintaining conveyance accuracy through proper signal correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-correction by using the density detection unit to automatically collect and analyze encoder signal characteristics, generate correction values, and apply corrections to the conveyance control signals. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external measurement equipment and dedicated correction circuits, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If printing quality is improved by increasing integration density of nozzles, then printing resolution is improved, but printing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the density detection unit to continuously monitor actual printed density and feed this information back to the control unit. The control unit then adjusts printing parameters in real-time to maintain optimal quality while operating at high speeds. This feedback mechanism enables the system to compensate for the reduced performance of high-density nozzles, maintaining both resolution and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting printing parameters such as ink discharge amount, scan speed, and nozzle activation patterns based on the actual performance of the high-density nozzle array. The control unit modifies these parameters in real-time to optimize the balance between printing quality and speed, allowing the system to operate at high conveyance speeds while maintaining resolution through precise parameter control.
Data Source
AI summary
In an apparatus including a first acquisition unit configured to acquire information of an operation amount of a conveyance unit configured to convey a printing medium, a second acquisition unit configured to acquire information of a density of an image printed by a printhead, and a specify unit configured to specify the density of the image based on histogram collection on the information of the density of the image acquired by the second acquisition, the following correction is made. More specifically, a correction value of the information of the operation amount based on a histogram on the acquired information of the operation amount is decided. Then, based on the decided correction value, the acquired information of the operation amount is corrected.