Test Chart Skew Measurement Using Dual Scale Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses require costly scanners or sensors to adjust image positions due to the need for precise skew measurement, which increases the overall cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A test chart with dual scales printed along the secondary scanning direction, allowing manual input of skew values to determine and correct skew angles, enabling the image forming apparatus to adjust its printing without external scanning devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanner or sensor is used to scan the test chart for skew measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from external expensive devices (scanners/sensors) and implements it using the image forming apparatus's own existing imaging capabilities. The test chart is printed and imaged by the apparatus itself, eliminating the need for separate scanning equipment while maintaining measurement precision through software-based analysis of the printed test patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming apparatus performs skew measurement on itself by printing a test chart and using its own imaging system to capture and analyze the test chart. This self-service approach eliminates dependency on external measurement devices, reducing system complexity and cost while maintaining measurement accuracy through internal resource utilization.
2Measurement precision
If a scanner or sensor is used to scan the test chart, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system of the image forming apparatus is made multi-functional by using it for both normal printing operations and skew measurement. This universal usage of existing components eliminates the need for dedicated expensive scanning equipment, reducing overall apparatus cost while maintaining measurement precision through the same imaging hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a disposable test chart printed on regular media instead of requiring expensive durable scanning equipment. The test chart serves its measurement purpose and can be discarded, while the measurement function itself is achieved through software processing of the printed pattern, eliminating the need for costly permanent scanning infrastructure.
3Device complexity
If manual input of scale values is required, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying the test chart with scale markings that users can read and input. This feedback mechanism guides users through the measurement process, making manual input more intuitive and easier to perform accurately, thereby improving ease of operation despite the manual nature of the task.
Data Source
AI summary
A test chart is obtained by printing a test chart image using an image forming apparatus for skew measurement of the image forming apparatus. The test chart includes a first scale image that includes a scale along a secondary scanning direction and a second scale image that includes a scale along the secondary scanning direction. The first and second scale images are arranged along a primary scanning direction. When a top-end part of the test chart is folded back, a top end of the test chart indicates different values from each other on the first and second scale images in accordance with a skew angle.