Verification Apparatus Automatic Reference Image Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing verification apparatuses are unable to automatically switch reference images when inspecting multiple targets, leading to reduced productivity due to the need for manual switching, especially in configurations where the print apparatus and verification apparatus cannot directly communicate.

Innovation Solution

A verification apparatus with a selection unit that reads a code from a reference image switching sheet to select the appropriate reference image and a first instruction unit to discharge the sheet to a set destination, enabling automatic switching of reference images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual switching of reference images is performed, then the verification apparatus can inspect multiple targets, but productivity is reduced due to repeated manual operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinspection throughputVSAvoidmanual switching operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The verification apparatus automatically switches reference images by reading the code on the printed sheet itself, without requiring external communication or manual intervention. The system uses the printed sheet's own code to identify and select the appropriate reference image, enabling self-service automatic switching that improves productivity while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The code indicating which reference image to use is printed in advance on the sheet during the printing process. This preliminary action allows the verification apparatus to automatically retrieve and switch to the correct reference image before inspection begins, eliminating the need for manual switching operations and thereby improving productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Extent of automation

If direct communication between print apparatus and verification apparatus is implemented, then automatic switching of reference images is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic reference image switchingVSAvoidcommunication system configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the reference image selection information directly from the printed sheet by reading its code, rather than requiring communication between the print apparatus and verification apparatus. This eliminates the need for complex communication systems while maintaining automatic switching capability, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving the extent of automation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The printed code on the sheet serves as an intermediary that carries reference image identification information from the print apparatus to the verification apparatus without requiring direct communication between them. This intermediary approach enables automatic reference image switching while avoiding the complexity of direct communication systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11501425B2Verification apparatus and information processing method for selecting an image associated with a reference image

Publication Date: 2022.11.15 CANON KK

AI summary

A verification apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure selects an image associated with a code of a reference image switching sheet as a reference image when the code of the reference image switching sheet is read. An instruction is provided to discharge the reference image switching sheet to a set sheet discharging destination.