Spectrophotometer Calibration via Reference Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The calibration and storage of electro-optical instruments within printing devices are inefficient due to structural limitations that prevent precise alignment of calibration references, leading to inaccurate spectral data and difficulties in minimizing contamination during non-use periods.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a pivot mechanism and actuator for inclining the spectrophotometer, a calibration module with a tray for precise alignment of calibration references within the read plane, and a controller for automated calibration and storage, allowing for efficient calibration and protection of optical surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the spectrophotometer is mechanically translated to align the read plane with the calibration reference surface, then calibration accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and internal space requirements increase due to the need for a full-length translation system
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the spectrophotometer to align with the calibration reference (conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by moving the calibration reference into the spectrophotometer's read plane. The calibration reference is positioned on a movable platform that translates it horizontally into alignment with the fixed spectrophotometer, eliminating the need for complex full-length translation of the entire spectrophotometer assembly.
2Device complexity
If the calibration reference is placed outside the read plane to accommodate guide structure, then device simplicity is improved, but spectral data accuracy degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies dynamics by making the calibration reference position adjustable rather than fixed. The calibration reference is mounted on a movable platform that can translate horizontally to dynamically achieve precise alignment with the read plane during calibration operations, while maintaining simplicity in the overall guide structure design.
3Productivity
If the spectrophotometer remains in constant use position, then operational efficiency is improved, but contamination of optical surfaces increases during non-use periods
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the calibration function from the operational position by providing a dedicated calibration position separated from the media measurement position. The spectrophotometer can be selectively positioned to either the media position for continuous operation or the calibration position for maintenance, allowing optical surfaces to be protected from contamination during calibration and storage periods while maintaining high operational efficiency during printing operations.
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
Enables precise and automatic calibration of the spectrophotometer, maintaining accurate spectral data while minimizing contamination and optimizing the use of internal space within the printing device.
Implementation Method 1
Light deflected from the media 30 is received by a sensor module 40 within the spectrophotometer 15 via an aperture 45
Data Source
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Figure 3a~3c
Figure 4a
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for positioning or storing an electro-optical instrument (e.g., spectrophotometer) within a printing device to facilitate calibration or maintenance of the instrument. In various embodiments, the electro-optical instrument may be pivoted or moved to an inclined position to facilitate calibration of the instrument relative to one or more calibration references. The electro-optical instrument may also be moved or inclined along a travel path in the printing device to a position or positions adjacent to various calibration references.