Scanner Calibration Mode Switching for Image Density Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face fluctuations in image density due to factors like part deterioration, environmental conditions, and consumable variations, necessitating calibration but often impose operational burdens and accuracy trade-offs between document conveyance and placement reading methods.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that integrates both document conveyance and placement reading modes, allowing selection of the most suitable method for calibration based on user intent, using detection units to determine the appropriate correction mode for generating correction data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a document is read by conveying it through an ADF (automatic document feeder), then the operation burden on the user is reduced, but the reading accuracy may be lower compared to placing the document on a platen glass
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between ADF reading mode and platen glass reading mode based on real-time detection of document presence and user intent. The reading unit adapts its operation mode (conveyance vs. placement) to optimize both ease of operation and reading accuracy for different calibration scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the reading unit by switching between two distinct reading modes. When calibration is needed, the system detects document placement and automatically selects platen glass mode for higher accuracy; for normal operation, ADF mode provides ease of operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If both ADF and platen glass reading modes are integrated in a single image forming apparatus, then the adaptability to different user needs is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reading unit is designed with multi-functionality to perform both ADF conveyance reading and platen glass placement reading. This universal design allows a single apparatus to adapt to different user needs and calibration requirements without requiring separate dedicated devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects document placement and determines the appropriate reading mode without requiring manual user configuration. The detection unit and control unit work together to self-determine the optimal reading approach, reducing the burden on users while managing the complexity of having dual reading capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit and a reading unit. The image forming unit is configured to form an image. The reading unit has a first reading mode, in which a document conveyed by a conveyance unit is read, and a second reading mode, in which a document placed on a platen glass is read. A first correction mode, in which correction data is generated using a result of reading the test document in the first reading mode, or a second correction mode, in which correction data is generated using a result of reading the test document in the second reading mode, is executed based on a result of detection of placement of a test document on the reading unit.