2D Image Sensor Partial Reading for Reduced Readout Time

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image forming apparatuses with two-dimensional image sensors are limited in their efficient use due to the time required for reading output values, restricting their application beyond colorimetry and paper handling functions.

Innovation Solution

An imaging device and method that includes a two-dimensional image sensor with multiple light receiving units, a control unit to receive operation mode signals, and a sensor controller to set and control the imaging area based on the intended use, allowing for efficient reading of output values in either whole or partial modes for various functions like colorimetry, misalignment detection, and paper edge detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the two-dimensional image sensor reads output values from all light receiving units, then the imaging area coverage is improved, but the reading time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging area coverageVSAvoidreading time
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the two-dimensional image sensor into multiple independently controllable regions or blocks. The sensor controller can selectively activate and read output values from specific regions based on the imaging target position, rather than reading all light receiving units. This segmentation allows the system to cover the required imaging area while significantly reducing the number of units that need to be read at any given time, thus reducing reading time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements partial reading action by configuring the sensor controller to read output values from only the necessary portion of light receiving units corresponding to the actual imaging target. Instead of performing excessive action by reading all units, the system dynamically adjusts the reading scope to match the required coverage, achieving optimal balance between area coverage and reading time for different imaging scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the two-dimensional image sensor is used for multiple functions, then the versatility is improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the two-dimensional image sensor and its controller as a universal platform capable of performing multiple functions including colorimetry, image quality assessment, misalignment detection, and paper edge detection. The sensor controller is configured to adaptively adjust the imaging parameters and reading strategies based on the specific function required, allowing a single device to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate specialized sensors for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic control where the sensor controller can dynamically adjust the imaging area, reading rate, and processing priority based on the current function being performed. For example, during colorimetry a different reading strategy is used compared to misalignment detection. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to handle multiple functions efficiently while managing control complexity through context-aware parameter adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 enables the two-dimensional image sensor to be used more efficiently across multiple functions by optimizing reading speed and area settings, enhancing the performance and versatility of the image forming apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

a two-dimensional image sensor that includes a plurality of light receiving units capable of reading an output value individually according to a volume of received light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9549097B2Imaging device, image forming apparatus, and method of controlling driving of two-dimensional image sensor
Publication Date: 2017.01.17 RICOH CO LTD
  • US9549097B2 patent drawing
  • US9549097B2 patent drawing
  • US9549097B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging device comprises: a two-dimensional image sensor that includes a plurality of light receiving units capable of reading an output value individually according to a volume of received light thereof; a receiving unit that receives a control signal that specifies an operation mode of the two-dimensional image sensor that is predetermined according to a purpose of using the output value; and a sensor controller that sets, on the basis of the control signal received by the receiving unit, an imaging area representing an area of a light receiving unit that reads the output value from among the light receiving units of the two-dimensional image sensor and controls reading of the output value.