Toner Density Adjustment via Dynamic User-Defined Parameters
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for adjusting toner density in image forming are limited, as they do not allow users to freely set adjustment conditions such as time or test pattern type, and cannot adjust toner density when it falls within an acceptable range or fail to adjust when it falls outside the range.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus and method that includes a storage for adjustment condition data sets, a detector for measuring density, and a controller to select and apply adjustment conditions, allowing for flexible adjustment of toner density based on user-defined parameters and detected levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a fixed acceptable density range is used for automatic adjustment, then the system operates automatically without user intervention, but the user cannot adjust toner density when it falls within the acceptable range or fail to adjust when outside the range
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between automatic and manual adjustment modes based on user selection. The controller can operate in automatic mode using a predetermined acceptable density range, or in manual mode where the user specifies custom density ranges and adjustment parameters, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to change key parameters including the acceptable density range, adjustment determination threshold, and adjustment amount. By enabling users to modify these parameters, the system becomes versatile enough to handle both automatic operation and customized manual control scenarios
2Productivity
If automatic density adjustment is performed based on a predetermined acceptable range, then the process is simple and fast, but the user cannot freely set adjustment conditions such as time or test pattern type
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic configuration options where users can select when density adjustment should be performed (e.g., at specific times or under specific conditions) and what type of test patterns to use. This allows the system to maintain fast automatic operation while accommodating diverse user requirements for adjustment timing and methodology
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can execute quick automatic adjustments using default settings, or it can perform customized adjustments with user-specified parameters including timing, test pattern types, and density ranges. This multi-functionality ensures both productivity and versatility
3Reliability
If the system only adjusts density when outside the acceptable range, then automatic correction is efficient, but the user cannot adjust toner even when density is within the acceptable range
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows users to modify the acceptable density range parameter or set a custom adjustment determination threshold. When the user specifies a custom threshold, the system performs adjustments based on this new criterion, enabling adjustments even when density falls within the default acceptable range, thus providing user-initiated adjustment freedom
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 users to adjust toner density according to specific conditions, ensuring accurate and customizable image formation by allowing for flexible setting of adjustment parameters and precise control over toner density levels.
Implementation Method 1
a detector that detects a density level of the colorant from the test pattern image
Implementation Method 2
a detector that detects a density level of the colorant from the test pattern image
Data Source
AI summary
In order to adjust density of a colorant of an image forming apparatus, a plurality of adjustment condition data sets is provided. An image forming engine of the image forming apparatus forms a test pattern image of a test pattern using the colorant. A detector of the image forming apparatus detects a density level of the colorant from the test pattern image to output a detected density. A controller of the image forming apparatus selects one of the plurality of adjustment condition data sets as a selected adjustment condition data set, and performs density adjustment according to the selected adjustment condition data set.