Writing Start Timing Correction for Image Forming Speed Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face productivity losses due to downtime when switching between different image forming speeds, as existing methods require re-execution of the registration correction mode, leading to errors in writing start timing and misregistration issues.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that stores correction amounts for writing start timing adjustments based on speed ratios, allowing for precise timing corrections without re-executing the registration correction mode when switching speeds, thereby preventing misregistration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the registration correction mode is re-executed when switching image forming speeds, then writing start timing accuracy is maintained, but productivity decreases due to increased downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing correction amounts for writing start timing at different image forming speeds. When the image forming speed changes, the system retrieves the pre-stored correction amount corresponding to the new speed and applies it directly, eliminating the need to re-execute the registration correction mode. This allows the system to maintain writing start timing accuracy while avoiding the downtime associated with re-executing correction procedures.
2Productivity
If the registration correction mode is avoided when switching speeds, then productivity is maintained, but writing start timing errors occur causing misregistration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the relationship between image forming speed and writing start timing. The system stores correction amounts that are specific to different image forming speeds, and when the speed parameter changes, the corresponding correction amount parameter is retrieved and applied. This allows the system to adapt to different speeds without re-executing the full registration correction mode, thereby maintaining both productivity and writing start timing accuracy.
3Productivity
If writing start timing is adjusted using speed ratio multiplication, then productivity is improved by reducing downtime, but misregistration occurs due to timing errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the registration correction mode to accurately measure the actual writing start timing at a reference image forming speed, then using this measured feedback information to calculate appropriate correction amounts for other speeds. Rather than relying on theoretical speed ratio multiplication alone, the system incorporates actual measured timing data to generate correction values that are stored and applied when speeds change, ensuring both productivity and image position accuracy.
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 solution enables seamless switching between image forming speeds, reducing downtime and maintaining image quality by accurately adjusting writing start timing, thus enhancing productivity.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to emit a light beam
Implementation Method 2
a beam detector configured to receive the light beam and output a synchronization signal
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus operable at a plurality of image forming speeds includes a pattern detection unit configured to detect a registration correction pattern at a first image forming speed, a writing start timing determination unit configured to determine writing start timing at which an electrostatic latent image is started to be written on a photosensitive member by a light beam emitted from a light source, and a storage unit configured to store in advance a correction amount for correcting the writing start timing. When the image forming apparatus operates at the first image forming speed set in advance, an image is formed at the writing start timing determined by the writing start timing determination unit. When the image forming apparatus operates at a second image forming speed, an image is formed at a writing start timing corrected based on the correction amount and a speed ratio.