Method and apparatus for controlling the sequence, size and position of an image control patch

A method and apparatus for reproducing high quality images using an electrophotographic printing machine is disclosed. More specifically, the present invention is used to change the location, shape and size of a process control patch. Process control patches may be used to improve the quality of an image prior to printing. The intensity of light reflected from the control patch is measured, and the measurements are used to change parameters such as magnitude of electrostatic charge, and toner concentration, before the latent image developed. Adjusting these parameters at this time will allow the printing apparatus to reproduce images having superior quality than previously available.