Image Forming Apparatus Proof Print Sheet Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Discarding printed matter from proof printing in image forming processes is wasteful, especially when dealing with large print jobs, as it does not utilize sheets without spoilage outputted during proof printing.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that determines whether sheets from proof printing can be used for final printing based on scanned data, allowing sheets without spoilage to be reused for final output, thereby optimizing resource utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proof printing is performed to create a reference image, then image quality inspection is enabled, but printed matter from proof printing is discarded causing resource waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent recovers and reuses printed matter from proof printing that does not contain spoilage. The sorting device inspects the proof printed matter and separates non-defective sheets for reuse in final printing, converting waste material into reusable resources and reducing paper consumption.
2Reliability
If multiple proof printings are performed to obtain a satisfactory reference image, then image quality is improved, but resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system accumulates and reuses non-defective printed matter from multiple proof printing operations. By inspecting and sorting proof printed sheets, the system builds up a supply of reusable material that can be used for final printing, reducing the need to discard sheets even when multiple proof printings are necessary.
3Device complexity
If proof printing output is discarded, then reference image creation is simplified, but environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sorting device automatically inspects proof printed matter and separates non-defective sheets for reuse, eliminating the need to manually discard all proof printing output. This automated recovery process reduces environmental impact by minimizing paper waste while maintaining the simplicity of reference image creation.
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
This solution enables the reuse of sheets from proof printing, reducing waste and conserving resources by utilizing non-defective output from proof printing as final print output.
Implementation Method 1
an image reader reading the image formed on the sheet
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus enables utilizing an output of proof printing as an output of final printing, wherein the image forming apparatus includes an image former forming an image on a sheet, an image reader reading an image formed on the sheet, and a controller, wherein the controller acquires a determination result of whether or not a sheet, on which an image read by the image reader is formed before the final printing by the image former in order to create a reference image to be used for inspecting an output matter of a printing job, can be used for an output matter of the final printing and controls the number of sheets or copies on which the images are to be formed using the image former at the final printing.