Abstract: An image correction method able to avoid error image. According to opposite properties of black and white, only the last few bits of the scanned digital signal are extracted for black correction, while only the first few bits of the scanned digital signal are extracted for white correction. Further, the most significant bit of the digital signal is 1 for white correction. Therefore, the unwanted LBB effect on the scanned image caused by dust or spots on the correction document is avoided. In addition, as only a few bits of the scanned digital signal are extracted, the requirement in memory capacity is reduced.

Abstract: A facsimile machine receives image data from a facsimile machine of another end. A Random Access Memory (RAM) stores a measured average value and fluctuation of an Eye Quality Monitor (EQM) value of the image data, and a number of error lines of the image data as an EQM data table. In past facsimile communication, a main control unit receives a training signal from the facsimile machine of the other end, and executes a training process. The main control unit measures an average value and fluctuation of an EQM value of the training signal, and compares the measured average value and the fluctuation of the EQM value with the average value and the fluctuation of the EQM value stored in the EQM data table. When there is no match, the main control unit executes the training process again.

Abstract: A method of controlling a color printing apparatus takes into account variations in color quality across a sheet, perpendicular to the process direction. The apparatus outputs a print sheet forming a test print, the test print including at least one primary strip extending along a cross-process direction of the printer, and a set of test patches. The test print is read, the reading including measuring actual colors of each of a plurality of portions of the primary strip along the cross-process direction. An in-line spectrophotometer, with an array of photosensors extending across the sheet path, can be used to make measurements across the primary strip.

Abstract: An image processing device is provided with a reference position determining system that determines a reference position based on image data of an original, an image scanning system that scans the original line by line, the line extending in a main scanning direction, an image storing system that stores a predetermined number of lines of image data scanned by the image scanning system, a compensation value determining system that determines a compensation value which is used to make at least a position of a point in the predetermined number of lines of image data stored in the image storing system coincide with the reference position, and a compensating system that compensates the position of the predetermined number of lines of image data in accordance with the compensation value determined by the compensation value determining system.

Abstract: A maintenance work support device which computes replacement information of a part configuring a device and supports maintenance work of the device includes: a storage unit storing information; and a control unit controlling the maintenance work support device according to the stored information. The storage unit comprises: a unit storing identification information and a replacement state for improving part quality as quality information; a unit storing device identification information and a replacement state by a past part failure as replacement history information; and a unit storing a part replacement record associated with a device use state as replacement record information.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods related to electronic voice or data communication. More specifically, the systems and methods disclosed herein relate to the selection of transmitting devices, communication network paths, transmittal options and/or receiving device protocols for electronic voice or data communication.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes a reading unit, a control unit, and a pattern region. The reading unit moves a linear reading range, which is provided in a main scanning direction, in a sub-scanning direction that intersects with the main scanning direction while reading an object that faces the reading range, and generates image data on the basis of a read result. The control unit controls the reading unit. The pattern region includes a predetermined pattern that defines a reference position for specifying a reading position that is read by the reading unit. The predetermined pattern has a characteristic portion that specifies a schematic position of the predetermined pattern in the sub-scanning direction. The control unit includes a first image acquisition unit, a pattern searching unit, a second image acquisition unit, a characteristic portion searching unit, a first reprocessing instruction unit, and a second reprocessing instruction unit.

Abstract: An object of this invention is to suppress a decrease in reading efficiency while preventing image degradation. To achieve this object, an image reading apparatus includes a light source which illuminates an object, a sensor which photoelectrically converts light reflected by the object and reads information on the object, a first density reference member which serves as a reference for correcting an image signal obtained by reading an original by the sensor, a second density reference member which is different from the first density reference member, a comparison unit which compares the second signal obtained by reading the second density reference member by the sensor and the third signal obtained by reading again the second density reference member by the sensor, and a correction unit which corrects the image signal on the basis of the first signal obtained by reading the first density reference member by the sensor, and the comparison result of the comparison device.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus and an image expansion and contraction correcting method are provided that improve the quality of each read image by restraining image expansion and contraction caused by a variation in the combination of conveying units for conveying each document. The image reading apparatus has conveying units (a first conveying unit, a second conveying unit, and a third conveying unit) that convey each document, and an image reading unit (a first image reading unit and a second image reading unit) that reads an image of each document being conveyed by the conveying units. The image reading speed of the image reading unit is adjusted in accordance with a change in the combination of conveying units that are conveying a document, so as to correct image expansion and contraction caused by a change in document conveying speed caused by the change in the combination of conveying units.

Abstract: A printing apparatus which executes a calibration operation of matching a measured value of a color reproduced on a print medium with a target value of the color. The printing apparatus includes a unit which executes the calibration operation only on restricted patches satisfying a predetermined condition without executing the calibration operation on all of the patches, when the print medium is exchanged or a print color material is exchanged.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic print inspection method in which photographic prints are scanned to obtain digitized images. The scanned digitized image of the photographic print is compared to digital image data which represents the original captured image. The resulting digital correction data indicates whether or not there are defects in the print media or faults in the printer process, including the digitizing steps. Signal processing transformations may be used to decide how to separate media defects from processing faults and how to correct for the latter. The method of the present invention can be used as a final quality check so that any defective prints can be rejected and remade before orders go out to a customer.

Abstract: A document scanning device reads an image on a document while scanning the image, and generates image data based on the image. The document scanning device selects and sets a scanning speed in accordance with a transfer mode used when the document scanning device transfers the image data to another apparatus. The document scanning device controls the amount of generated image data by using the set scanning speed to successively read the image, whereby optimal transfer processing in accordance with the transfer mode can be performed. By switching a transfer path in accordance with the type of the read data, i.e., binary data per pixel or multilevel data per pixel, efficient data transfer can be performed.

Abstract: A printing system having a control arrangement and at least one printer, which are connected to each other via a communications network, in which the printer comprises the following components: a sensor arrangement with at least one sensor for registering at least one printing parameter, an encoding unit coupled to the sensor arrangement for encoding a printing parameter message belonging to a printing parameter determined by the sensor arrangement, a data transmitting unit, which is connected to the communications network, for sending the printing parameter message, in which the control arrangement comprises the following components: a data receiving unit, which is connected to the communications network, for receiving the printing parameter message, a decoding unit for decoding the printing parameter message, a printing parameter monitoring unit, coupled to the decoding unit, for monitoring the printing parameter received.

Abstract: A scanning device includes a first chassis, a second chassis and a calibration mechanism. The first chassis is for scanning one side of a document. The second chassis is for scanning the other side of the document. The second chassis is movably disposed opposite the first chassis. The calibration mechanism is for calibrating the color depth of the scan image. The calibration mechanism includes a calibration sheet and an elastic member. One end of the elastic member is fixed in the scanning device. The second chassis exerts a force on the calibration sheet to generate a relative movement between the calibration sheet and the first chassis. When the second chassis ceases exerting the force, the elastic member releases a resilient force for moving the calibration sheet to a starting position. The first chassis performs dynamic calibration by the relative movement between the first chassis and the calibration sheet.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus which is capable of preventing images read from a double-sided original from suffering an in-surface color irregularity on each of images read from the respective opposite sides of a double-sided original and a color difference between the front and reverse. A CCD line sensor reads a front-side original image. An image processing ASIC calculates shading correction data for performing shading correction on original image data read from the original image by the CCD line sensor, based on read luminance values obtained by the CCD line sensor by reading a plurality of halftone gradation patches thereon on a correction chart. The shading correction data calculated by the image processing ASIC is corrected based on read luminance values associated, respectively, with at least two of the gradation patches.

Abstract: A method of registering a scanning grid of a scanner with a printing grid of a printer that includes placing a predetermined motif in a digital image to create a modified image, printing the modified image using the printer to create a printed modified image, scanning the printed modified image using the scanner to create a scanned modified image that includes the motif, using the motif included in the scanned modified image to determine a rotation ? of the scanning grid of the scanner with respect to the printing grid of the printer, and using the motif included in the scanned modified image to determine a translation vector that gives a position of a node of the printing grid in a coordinate system of the scanning grid.

Abstract: A communication system and apparatus for a xerographic imaging system for enhanced collaborative communication between the machine user and the remote troubleshooting advisor. The machine includes an imager for showing a selected virtual representation of the machine including an image of the machine illustrating an area of the machine having the troubleshooting need. A communication link exists between the user and the advisor and comprises a bi-directional visualization of a selected virtual representation synchronously displayed to the user and the advisor via respective imagers. An image adjuster is operated by the expert for selective adjustment of the virtual representation to suggest a section of the area of the machine wherein action by the machine user may resolve the troubleshooting need. The selective adjustment is communicated to the machine user through the communication link whereby upon viewing this suggested adjustment, corrective action is suggested to the user.

Abstract: A white reference value and a corresponding transport speed are stored in memory. A black reference value and a corresponding imaging speed are also stored. Next, a printing operation is started and color values and a corresponding transport speed are stored. Accurately corrected color values are derived from the stored white reference value, transport speed, black reference value, imaging speed, color values and transport speed.

Abstract: A method for measuring density, includes: forming on a medium a pattern that consists of a plurality of dot rows formed respectively in a plurality of row regions lined up in a direction intersecting a movement direction in which a plurality of nozzles move, by forming each of the dot rows in the row region arranged in the movement direction by ejecting ink from the nozzles; reading the pattern by a scanner; measuring density of each of the row regions of the read pattern; calculating respective modification values corresponding to each of the row regions, based on at least a part of a measurement result of the density of the plurality of the row regions; and modifying respective measured values of the density of each of the row regions based on the respective modification values corresponding to each of the row regions.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus and a control method thereof, the control method of an image forming apparatus which transmits and receives facsimiles through a first line and a second line including detecting a facsimile transmitting and receiving error of a first facsimile unit and a second facsimile unit which are respectively matched to the first line and the second line; and switching the first line to be matched to the second facsimile unit if the facsimile transmitting and receiving error is detected in the first facsimile unit. With this, if an error happens to one of a plurality of facsimile cards, a telephone number matched to the facsimile card having the error is automatically switched to a facsimile card normally operating, thereby normally performing a facsimile function.

Abstract: An apparatus for predicting when maintenance is required for a scanner comprises a tracking module configured to track a quality parameter history, a prediction module configured to predict when maintenance is required based on the quality parameter history, and a notification module configured to notify a user when maintenance is predicted to be required based on a quality parameter trend. The quality parameter is selected from a group consisting of an average brightness, a maximum brightness, a video gradient, and a contrast.

Abstract: In a color laser printer, the printing density of images to be formed is corrected based on a correction values stored in a control memory, For each printing operation the printer determines whether the correction values stored in the control memory matches a value stored in a backup memory. If the correction values in the control memory does not match the correction values in the backup memory, the value of a number of printed pages A serving as the printing performance is incremented by one. If the number of printed pages A is greater than a reference performance number of sheets B pre-stored in memory, then the correction values in the control memory is copied to the backup memory, and the printing operation is executed. If a “Restore correction data” command is inputted, the contents of the backup memory are copied to the control memory.

Abstract: A representative embodiment provides for a document printing apparatus having a print engine a print engine configured to print sheet media, and an output tray configured to receive printed sheet media from the print engine. The printing apparatus further includes a memory device, a processor, and a sheet media detector. The sheet media detector is configured to determine a predetermined quantity of sheet media in the output tray and to generate a signal in response thereto. The memory device is configured to store a document therein in electronic form. The processor is configured to receive the signal from the sheet media detector, and, in response, to cause the print engine to print the document and to place the document in the output tray.

Abstract: In a print system which processes a print job on the basis of a print instruction in which request items in print processes for obtaining a printed matter are described in a predetermined description format, a print management device manages print processings for the printed matter. The print management device includes a detection unit that detects a connection state of a processing device for executing a predetermined process among the request items included in the print instructions, and a selection unit that selects a print instruction of a description format corresponding to the connected processing device to output the print instruction to the processing device.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus for reading an image on an original document by irradiating it with light and photoelectrically converting reflected light from it by an image pickup unit, including: an original document guide member positionable opposite to the image pickup unit, with a conveyance position of the original document therebetween; a white reference member that is positionable, the same as the original document guide member, and has a reference white color; an achromatic constant-density reference member that is positionable, the same as the original document guide member, and has a reference achromatic constant-density; a drive unit that moves one of the three members so as to be positioned opposite to the image pickup unit; and a control unit that controls execution of detection processings for dust detection from data obtained by moving, as described above, the achromatic constant-density reference member and the white reference member by reading them.

Abstract: A method and or a device for comprehensive temperature calibration of a full width array (FWA) image sensor may minimize loss of productivity and/or image quality. Multiple temperature sensors disposed along a width of the FWA image sensor may provide temperature points used to correct for temperature shifts in output of individual pixel sensors of the FWA image sensor. Under control of a microprocessor, a real-time correction may be calculated for each pixel of the FWA image sensor. The correction may be based upon a real-time temperature profile of the FWA image sensor and temperature dependent factors of at least one calibration equation. The factors may be predetermined, or be determined at factory test, at warm-up or at a specified time.

Abstract: A document reading apparatus including: a first scanning section that moves in a scanning direction along a document surface, for supporting a first mirror to reflect an image of a document in a direction parallel to the scanning direction; an intermediate scanning section that moves synchronous with the first scanning section, for supporting an intermediate mirror to reflect the image of the document reflected by the first mirror in a direction opposite from an incident direction of the image; a reading section including an imaging sensor for reading the image of a scanned document and a focusing lens for focusing the image of the document reflected by the intermediate mirror on the imaging sensor; a driving wire for pulling the first scanning section in the scanning direction; a supporting pulley for supporting the driving wire at a starting side for scanning or at an ending side for scanning; a position adjustment section capable of adjusting a position of the supporting pulley in its axial direction; a co

Abstract: Systems and methods using an orientation/position-sensitive calibration pattern for three-dimensional calibration of an imaging system, such as one used in a process for scanning documents are disclosed. The method generally includes positioning the pattern on a support, capturing images using cameras to be calibrated, each image containing at least a unique orientation and position sensitive sub-area of the pattern, determining a set of coordinate pairs of corresponding points in the image and the pattern for each image utilizing image data and pattern information, and performing optimization utilizing the sets of coordinate pairs to calibrate relative position, orientation, zoom, and/or lens distortion, etc. of each camera so as to construct a three-dimensional camera calibration model. The pattern is generally comprised of overlapping sub-areas of a minimum portion of the pattern.

Abstract: Image measurement values of a measurement object, in particular a printed sheet, measured by means of a photoelectric image measuring unit operating on the basis of pixels are corrected with respect to at least one influencing variable which influences the measurement result with a view to at least partially eliminating the effect of this influencing variable on the measuring process. The image measurement values measured by the image measuring unit are converted by correction parameters of a parameter-based correction model into corrected image measurement values which no longer contain the influencing variable affecting the measuring process. The correction parameters used for the parameter-based correction model are automatically calculated using reference measurement values measured at reference measurements points on preferably the same measurement object by means of a reference measuring unit and the image measuring unit.

Abstract: An image scanning apparatus includes a scanning section which scans an object opposite to a linear scanning area along a main scanning direction while moving the scanning area along a subscanning direction intersecting the main scanning direction. The scanning section generates image data on the basis of the result of the scanning. A control unit of the scanning section includes a first image acquiring section that acquires first image data by making the scanning section execute scanning at a first subscanning resolution. The control unit also has a pattern searching section that searches the first image data for the image of the predetermined pattern. A second image acquiring section of the control unit acquires second image data in such a manner that when the image of the predetermined pattern is not detected by the pattern searching section.

Abstract: A small domain generation section generates a plurality of small domains in a multi-valued image transmitted from an intermediate tone correction section. Each domain is constituted of a plurality of pixels. Counting means counts a signal input value of each pixel. Weighting calculation means corrects each signal input value of the “pixels subjection to toner quantity equivalent value calculation” with reference to the signal input value of the small domain, and reads out a weighting coefficient from the weighting coefficient table based on the modified signal input value. The weighting calculation means multiplies the signal input value by the coefficient so as to convert the signal input value into a toner quantity equivalent value. Accumulating means calculates toner quantity equivalent values for all of the pixels of the multi-valued image.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes a reading unit, a control unit and a reference color region. The control unit includes a preliminary read processing unit, a first image acquisition unit, a second image acquisition unit and a reprocessing instruction unit. The reprocessing instruction unit specifies a schematic position of a reference region in the sub-scanning direction and instructs the preliminary read processing unit to perform preliminary reading again at the schematic position of the reference region.

Abstract: In a document handling system for moving documents for imaging over a transparent platen that is subject to contamination, and having a shared repositionable document illumination system that is normally positioned in a park position substantially spaced from this moving documents imaging platen area, wherein in response to lifting the document handling system and the activation of a diagnostics routine, which can be activated from detected image contamination, the repositionable document illumination system is automatically moved under the moving documents platen and activated to illuminate that platen area from underneath to illuminate the contamination thereon for cleaning.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that generates a look-up table which can be used to preview digital motion picture content. During operation, the system receives an analytical model for a digital motion picture workflow. Next, the system selects a set of input pixel values. The system then determines a set of output pixel values using the set of input pixel values and the analytical model. Finally, the system generates the look-up table by associating the set of input pixel values with the set of output pixel values. The analytical model comprises a number of models that capture the various stages in the digital motion picture workflow. These models can include a recorder model, a negative film model, a printer model, a positive film model, and a projector model.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described that facilitate calibrating a print engine using calibration data sets generated at at least two different L* levels to provide additional calibration measurement resolution toward the darker end of the grayscale spectrum. For instance a first, light grey (e.g., 70-90L*) calibration strip is scanned at a first resolution (e.g., 70-90L*) to generate a first calibration data set, and a second darker grey (e.g., 30-50L*) calibration strip is scanned at high resolution (e.g., 100L*) to generate a second calibration data set. The first calibration data set is used to calibrate the print engine for high L* values (e.g., 50-100) and the second calibration data set is used to calibrate the print engine for low L* values (e.g., 0-50). Alternatively, a single calibration strip having a known L* value can be scanned once at the known L* value and again at a higher L* value (e.g.

Abstract: The invention is related to an image reading apparatus which has a conveying unit which conveys an original (D), a first reading unit including a first reading section which reads one side of the original (D) conveyed by the conveying unit, a second reading unit (12) including a second reading section which reads the other side of the original conveyed by the conveying unit; and a moving mechanism (30) which displaces relative positions of the first reading unit and the second reading unit in an original conveyance direction by using driving force of a motor for driving the conveying unit.

Abstract: A host apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a diagnosis method for the image forming apparatus, the diagnosis method including: storing a printing image generated from print data according to a printing command; and generating a diagnosis image for the printing image based on the stored printing image and a defect image corresponding to a predetermined defect of the image forming apparatus.

Abstract: A host apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a diagnosis method for the image forming apparatus, the diagnosis method including: storing a printing image generated from print data according to a printing command; and generating a diagnosis image for the printing image based on the stored printing image and a defect image corresponding to a predetermined defect of the image forming apparatus.

Abstract: Consistency of document reprints is improved by recording characteristics of a reference printing system used to produce a reference printing of a document, determining related characteristics of a reprint printing system, retrieving the recorded characteristics and compensating for differences between the reference system and the reprint system in the reprint system prior to using the reprint system to produce reprints of the document. Analytical test prints (TPs) are produced with the respective printing systems in close temporal association to the production of the respective reference prints and reprints. TPs can be customized according to aspects of the document. TP customization allows the compensation to address aspects of the printing systems that have a bearing on perceived consistency in the reprints. TPs can be customized with regard to colors in test patches or both the colors and locations of test patches on a page. Compensation is based on measurements of the TPs.

Abstract: An apparatus, method, mobile station and computer program product are provided for filtering noise from a digital signal. In particular, a signal-dependent noise model is used that provides the pointwise (or pixelwise) standard deviation of the temporal noise of raw data outputted from a digital imaging sensor as a function of the image intensity. In addition, unlike conventional noise models, the standard deviation of the noise (?) is a parameterized function, where the parameters are key characteristics of the digital imaging sensor. These parameters may include, for example, the pedestal level (p), the quantum efficiency (q), and the analogue gain (?) associated with the digital imaging sensor.

Abstract: A printing medium has means for storing electronic data. The means includes an input-output unit, a first memory, a second memory, a comparison unit, and an access controller. The second memory stores data for confirming the validity of the information printed on the printing medium. The first memory stores data for controlling access to the second memory. In particular, write access to the second memory is denied unless the accessing party also submits comparison data that compare correctly with the data stored in the first memory. This protocol prevents the facile creation of counterfeit copies.

Abstract: An image forming device has image forming units 3-6, a transfer belt 7, a position detection unit 19, a concentration sensor 23, and an adjustment unit. A toner image is formed on the surfaces of the image forming units 3-6, and transferred onto the transfer belt 7. The position detection unit 19 detects a predetermined position on the surface of the transfer belt 7. On the predetermined position, the concentration sensor 23 detects first information relating to the color of the surface of the transfer belt 7. The concentration sensor 23 detects second information relating to the color of the pattern image that is formed on the predetermined position. The adjustment unit adjusts toner concentration at the time of forming an image based on the first information and the second information detected by the concentration sensor 23.

Abstract: When an output image is observed, an image processing apparatus by which image observation can be performed always in a satisfactory state irrespective of its observation environment and a change of a human's visual characteristic is provided. In this image processing apparatus, a first output unit outputs the target image in a first gradation reproduction range, and a second output unit outputs the target image output by the first output unit in a second gradation reproduction range. At this time, a correction unit performs a correction process, i.e., gradation conversion process, to the target image output by the second output unit, on the basis of information concerning the environment for observing the output result of the target image by the second output unit.

Abstract: Laser beam scan line nonlinearity is compensated for by providing algorithms for generating linearity profiles which are used by a corresponding registration system in an electrophotographic device to determine the placement of Pels across a scan line.

Abstract: Test image data is introduced into the image processing path of a marking device, at various points prior to the marking engine. Comparison of output of the marking engine from various sources of image data is made to diagnose imaging path component failure. Imaging data at various points in the image processing path is captured for analysis as part of component failure diagnosis. Various memory devices are used to both introduce test data at various points in the image processing path and capture data at various points of the image processing path.

Abstract: Upon observing homogeneity in page image by the human eye, a permissible level associated with color reproduction with respect to an identical color signal changes depending on the distance from an interest point. Since the conventional homogeneity in page image evaluation scheme doesn't take the above characteristics into consideration, the correlation between a finished image and the evaluation result cannot be exploited fully. Hence, image data, which forms an image with identical density within a range to be evaluated in one page, is output to a printer to measure reflection characteristics of the image at points on output of the printer. One point is set as a reference point, and distances between the reference point and the remaining points, and differences of the reflection characteristic between the reference point and the remaining points are calculated. The image quality within the range is evaluated based on the distances and differences.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes a scanning region and a user interface region adjacent to the scanning region. In the user interface, a first illuminated indicator corresponds to a function of the image forming apparatus. A light source is operable to illuminate an object in the scanning region. A first light conveying member is coupled to the illuminated indicator and operable to receive light from the light source.

Abstract: The present invention provides an image processing apparatus including a first recognition component, a second recognition component and a conversion component. The first recognition component recognizes input side unevenness information representing unevenness of an image depending on an image inputting apparatus to which an image inputted and image data representing an image inputted to the image inputting apparatus. The second recognition component recognizes output side unevenness information representing unevenness of an image depending on an image outputting apparatus outputting based on the image data. The conversion component, based on the input side unevenness information recognized by the first recognition component and the output side unevenness information recognized by the second recognition component, corrects unevenness of images on both sides and converts the image data to a format processable by the image outputting apparatus at an output destination.

Abstract: Job logs are mined in order to compute a redirection matrix for managing operation of a plurality of systems. The redirection matrix may be used to identify alternative systems in the event a user selected system becomes unavailable to which a job may be redirected. In addition, the redirection matrix may be used to compute a network printer topology and print clusters for use with network management and system analysis.

Abstract: A test image has a black bias on a white background. The black bias is a line set at about 45 degrees to the scan lines of a scanner. Boundary points of the scanned bias are found. A regression line is calculated from the positions of the boundary points. Differences in the positions of adjacent boundary points, together with the slope reciprocal of the regression line, are used to determine error values. The error values are compared with a gate value to determine if there are any occurrences of scan line misalignment.