Abstract: A method and apparatus for on-line predicting an analytical model of a dynamically varying color reproduction device comprises recursively executing a parameter adjustment algorithm for updating the parameters to the analytical model. Parameter adjustment is computed based upon a measured error signal detected between a sensed signal detected from actual device output and with an insitu sensor, and the analytical model output. The adjustment algorithm is recursively executed until parameter convergence effects a minimal error measurement, at which time the updated parameters are identified as accurate within the selected parametric model.

Abstract: Color imaging methods and systems are provided where each color separation image is to be registered in a composite manner under a variety of machine conditions. Registration sensors are provided to register the color separations under a variety of machine conditions while accounting for the different types of registration sensors used. A controller calibrates the registration sensors automatically based on set-up data and, using the calibrated sensors, controls the output of the image data for one or more of the color separation images to reduce or eliminate image registration offsets. The registration sensors are calibrated by directly measuring set-up marks during set-up. Each registration sensor outputs a feedback to the controller during set-up to account for phenomenon caused by variation in toner concentration or sensor susceptibility. The registration sensors provide a plurality of set-up sensor feedback values, one for each of at least four colors and one for a bare photoreceptor belt.

Abstract: In color printing with a color registration system for the registration of plural color images on an image bearing surface, such as a photoreceptor belt of a color printer, registration marks are imaged on the image bearing surface, which registration marks correspond to the color images and are sensed by a registration marks sensor. In an initial gross registration mode the system first automatically images first registration marks, in the form of expanded chevron targets, which are greatly expanded in the process direction so as to avoid overlapping marks even if there is initial gross misregistration, to thus provide wider initial misregistration latitude for the sensor. When an acceptable initial registration is achieved, the system automatically switches to imaging more closely spaced and more frequent second registration marks, preferably regular chevron targets, providing higher registration accuracy.

Abstract: In color printing with a color registration system for the registration of plural color images on an image bearing surface, such as a photoreceptor belt of a color printer, registration marks are imaged on the image bearing surface, which registration marks correspond to the color images and are sensed by a registration marks sensor. The system first automatically images first registration marks, preferably “Z” targets, which provide wider initial misregistration latitude for the sensor for gross registration. When an initial registration is achieved, the system automatically switches to imaging second registration marks, preferably chevron targets, providing higher registration accuracy for the sensor. These registration targets may be generated along opposite sides of the image area on opposite sides of the photoreceptor or other belt.