Scanner Lamp Light Output Estimation Using Spectral Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Desktop scanners with cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs) face delays due to the lengthy warm-up time required for stable light output and spectral characteristics, which complicates scanner calibration and initial scanning processes.
Innovation Solution
A method to estimate light output of a lamp in a scanner before it is fully warmed-up by measuring spectral characteristics, such as the ratio of detected light in different wavelength bands, and using stored data to predict the warm-up state and adjust image data accordingly, allowing scanning to commence before full warm-up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the lamp is allowed to fully warm-up before scanning, then the light output stability and spectral characteristics are improved, but the scanning time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurements of spectral characteristics during the lamp warm-up period and uses these measurements to predict future light output. This allows the scanning process to begin before the lamp is fully warmed up, as the predicted light output values enable proper image data adjustment without requiring actual light stability
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a mathematical model (copy) of the lamp's light output behavior by measuring spectral characteristics and storing correlation data. This model predicts future light output values, replacing the need to wait for actual physical light stability while maintaining accurate scanning capabilities
2Measurement precision
If the lamp is allowed to fully warm-up before calibration, then the calibration accuracy is improved, but the initial scanning process is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration measurements by scanning a calibration strip during the lamp warm-up period. Spectral characteristics are measured and used to compute gain values that will be applicable when the lamp reaches its predicted warm-up state, allowing calibration to be completed without waiting for full warm-up
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a mathematical model of the lamp's spectral characteristics and light output behavior through preliminary calibration scans. This model enables accurate gain computation and image data adjustment without requiring the lamp to physically stabilize, maintaining calibration accuracy while reducing time
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 approach reduces the time needed for the first scan after activating the lamp by enabling calibration and image scanning before the lamp is fully warmed-up, improving efficiency and reducing delays.
Implementation Method 1
one or more cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs) are employed
Data Source
AI summary
A method of estimating light output of a lamp in a scanner prior to the lamp being fully warmed-up. The method includes measuring a spectral characteristic of light emitted by a lamp in a scanner at a time t0 prior to the lamp being fully warmed-up and estimating the light output of the lamp at a time t1 based on the measured spectral characteristic, wherein t1 is greater than t0. A method of scanning, as well as a scanning apparatus is also provided.