Image Printing Apparatus Conveyance Path Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image printing apparatuses face difficulties in accurately correcting the conveyance amount for each conveyance path, particularly when multiple discharge ports are used, leading to issues like white or black stripes in printed images due to variations in conveyance paths.
Innovation Solution
An image printing apparatus and method that includes a conveyance unit, a printing unit, and a control unit capable of controlling the conveyance unit based on specific information for each conveyance path, allowing for individual adjustment of the conveyance amount for different paths to ensure accurate image printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single correction value is used for all conveyance paths, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inability to correct conveyance errors specific to each path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the correction value management by creating separate correction values for each conveyance path. The control unit stores and applies different correction values (first correction value for first conveyance path, second correction value for second conveyance path) based on which path is currently being used, thereby maintaining high precision for each path without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the correction value to each specific conveyance path. Each path receives a correction value optimized for its specific characteristics (direction, length, mechanical properties), ensuring that the correction is locally appropriate for each path's unique error profile rather than applying a universal correction.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate correction values are derived for each conveyance path, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple correction value storage and selection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic selection of correction values based on the active conveyance path. The control unit automatically switches between the first correction value and second correction value depending on whether the first or second conveyance path is being used, providing adaptive precision without requiring complex manual intervention or multiple physical correction mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it stores multiple correction values, identifies which conveyance path is currently active, selects the appropriate correction value, and applies it to the conveyance amount control. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single intelligent control unit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyance path is changed, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates because the correction value becomes ineffective for the new path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares multiple correction values in advance for different conveyance paths before actual printing operations begin. When a conveyance path change occurs, the control unit already has the appropriate correction value ready to apply, eliminating the need for real-time recalculation or manual adjustment and maintaining precision during path transitions.
Data Source
AI summary
An image printing apparatus and a method of controlling the same are capable of appropriately correcting the conveyance amount in each of a plurality of conveyance paths. In a case of conveying a print medium along a first conveyance path, a controller controls the driving of a conveyance motor based on first information. In a case of conveying the print medium along a second conveyance path, the controller controls the driving of the conveyance motor based on second information, which is different from the first information.