Data processing method, digital printing method and system

Abstract

This application provides a data processing method, which includes: determining source data to be printed, the source data including multiple sets of variable data, with different sets of variable data having different change attributes; extracting each set of variable data from the source data; performing data type conversion processing on each set of variable data to obtain target variable data corresponding to each set of variable data, and assigning different target variable data to different identification information; identifying the target variable data based on the identification information, and performing matching processing on the target variable data corresponding to different sets of variable data, and performing fusion processing on the target variable data that meet the matching conditions to obtain multiple fused data; and segmenting the fused data to obtain multiple target printing data for printing. In this way, the fusion and printing of multiple sets of variable data with different change attributes can be realized, thereby better meeting the printing needs of users. This application also provides a digital printing method and system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of data processing technology, and in particular to a data processing method, a digital printing method and system. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of digital printing technology, the application of Variable Data Printing (VDP) is becoming increasingly widespread. Variable Data Printing is a type of on-demand printing, often referred to as Variable Information Printing (VIP), Personalized Printing, Customized Printing, Database Publishing, etc. It refers to printing different content on each printed material or publication, including text, numbers, images, barcodes, etc.

[0003] As users increasingly emphasize personalization and demand higher standards for printed materials and publications, how to better achieve variable data printing to better meet users' printing needs is a question that the industry is currently exploring. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a data processing method, a digital printing method, and a system that can integrate and print various variable data with different changing attributes, enhancing the richness of variable data printing. Therefore, it can better realize variable data printing and thus better meet the printing needs of users.

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, in a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a data processing method. This method includes: determining source data to be printed, the source data comprising multiple sets of variable data, each set of variable data having different change attributes; extracting each set of variable data from the source data; performing data type conversion processing on each set of variable data to obtain target variable data corresponding to each set of variable data, and assigning different target variable data to different identification information; identifying the target variable data based on the identification information, and performing matching processing on the target variable data corresponding to different sets of variable data; performing fusion processing on the target variable data that meets the matching conditions to obtain multiple fused data; and segmenting the fused data to obtain multiple target printing data for printing.

[0006] Based on this, it is possible to integrate and print multiple sets of variable data with different changing attributes, thereby enhancing the richness of variable data printing, better realizing variable data printing, and thus better meeting users' printing needs.

[0007] Furthermore, this data processing method can be executed by data processing devices such as computers and servers used for data processing.

[0008] In one possible implementation of the first aspect mentioned above, the change attributes include data content and data change type, and the data content and data change type are different for different groups of variable data.

[0009] This allows for the fusion and printing of multiple sets of variable data with different content and different data change types, enhancing the richness of variable data printing and thus better meeting users' printing needs. Of course, the change attributes can also include only data content or data change type, or other information, which can be set as needed.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the multiple sets of variable data include a first set of variable data and a second set of variable data. The data in the first set of variable data has a finite cycle period, while the data in the second set of variable data has an infinite cycle period. Therefore, the data change type of the first set of variable data is a finite cycle period change type, and the data change type of the second set of variable data is an infinite cycle period change type.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, the first set of variable data includes a plurality of first data, each of which is different data for fusion with printing background data, and the second set of variable data includes a plurality of second data, each of which is different printing background data.

[0012] Therefore, the first set of variable data includes data with a finite cycle period, such as multiple different data used to fuse with printing background data corresponding to a certain printing background file. The second set of variable data includes data with an infinite cycle period, such as printing background data corresponding to multiple different printing background files. Fusing these two types of variable data with varying attributes to obtain the final printing data can enhance the richness of variable data printing, thus better realizing variable data printing and better meeting users' printing needs.

[0013] Of course, in one possible implementation of the first aspect above, the data change type of the first set of variable data and the second set of variable data can also be other types, which can be set as needed.

[0014] Furthermore, in one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the multiple sets of variable data may also include other variable data besides the first and second sets, such as a third, fourth, and fifth set. Each set of variable data has different change attributes, and these attributes can be set as needed.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, data type conversion processing is performed on each group of variable data to obtain the target variable data corresponding to each group of variable data, including: synchronously performing data type conversion processing on the first group of variable data and the second group of variable data until the data type conversion processing of the first group of variable data and the second group of variable data is completed, and storing the obtained corresponding target variable data in the target cache pool.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, target variable data is identified based on identification information, and target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data are matched. Target variable data that meet the matching conditions are then fused to obtain multiple fused data. This includes: when stored data is detected in the target cache pool, the target variable data corresponding to the first group of variable data and the target variable data corresponding to the second group of variable data are matched one by one based on the identification information of the stored data. Target variable data that meet the matching conditions are then fused to obtain multiple fused data.

[0017] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, making different target variable data correspond to different identification information includes: adding different labels to each target variable data so that different target variable data correspond to different identification information; or storing each target variable data to different storage locations so that different target variable data correspond to different identification information.

[0018] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, the fused data is segmented to obtain multiple target printing data, including: segmenting the fused data according to the number of printing modules included in the printing equipment to obtain multiple target printing data, wherein the data size of the target printing data is the same as the data size of the printing module, and each target printing data has corresponding identification information to indicate the printing module corresponding to different target printing data.

[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, data type conversion processing is performed on each set of variable data, including: performing data type conversion processing on each set of variable data using a raster image processor to obtain target variable data of binary data type.

[0020] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a digital printing method, which includes: performing printing processing based on target printing data, wherein the target printing data is obtained through the aforementioned data processing method.

[0021] Furthermore, this digital printing method can be performed by printing equipment, or it can be performed in conjunction with the aforementioned data processing equipment, printing equipment, and other equipment.

[0022] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a digital printing system, including a data processing device, a network communication device, and a printing device. The printing device includes multiple printing modules. The data processing device is used to obtain multiple target printing data and send the multiple target printing data to the corresponding printing modules through the network communication device. The multiple target printing data are obtained by the data processing device according to the aforementioned data processing method. The printing modules are used to perform printing processing based on the received target printing data.

[0023] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, comprising: a memory for storing a computer program, the computer program including program instructions; and a controller for executing the program instructions to cause the electronic device to perform a data processing method as provided in the first aspect and / or any possible embodiment of the first aspect, or to cause the electronic device to perform a digital printing method as provided in any possible embodiment of the second aspect.

[0024] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, the computer program including program instructions, which are executed by an electronic device to cause the electronic device to perform a data processing method as provided in the first aspect and / or any possible embodiment of the first aspect, or to cause the electronic device to perform a digital printing method as provided in any possible embodiment of the second aspect.

[0025] The relevant beneficial effects of the second to fifth aspects mentioned above can be found in the relevant descriptions in the first aspect mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a digital printing system provided by an embodiment of this application, according to some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a data processing method provided by an embodiment of this application, based on some implementations of the present application.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a fusion process of two sets of variable data in the data processing method provided by the embodiments of this application, according to some implementations of this application;

[0030] Figure 4This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a digital printing method provided by an embodiment of this application, according to some implementations of the present application.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of this application, according to some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0032] First, we will introduce traditional printing techniques and variable data printing techniques in the field of digital printing technology.

[0033] Taking a document that needs to be printed as a Portable Document Format (PDF) document as an example, a PDF document usually contains multiple page files, and the content of each page file is usually different, thus forming a complete document that can be read on a computer or other electronic media.

[0034] In traditional printing technology, for multi-page documents like PDFs, in order to meet the requirements of the printing process or subsequent finishing processes, these multi-page documents need to be split and reassembled, arranging them according to a certain pattern for subsequent finishing. The pattern of page arrangement is often related to the subsequent finishing process, thus possessing a certain degree of complexity. Furthermore, if double-sided printing is involved, the page arrangement pattern becomes even more complex.

[0035] Because page layout patterns vary widely, specialized layout software is needed to distribute the pages and coordinate with subsequent finishing processes. Once the pages are laid out, a new file is generated and then transferred to the traditional printing process.

[0036] However, this workflow cannot handle variable data printing. In traditional printing processes, the most common method for printing variable data is through automatic numbering of mechanical serial numbers. However, this method is only suitable for changes in number combinations, with a single pattern of change. Furthermore, if the character size or font style changes, the mechanical serial numbers need to be remade, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. It is more suitable for simple applications with minimal changes, and therefore cannot meet the diverse personalized printing needs of today.

[0037] Another variable data printing technology based on traditional printing techniques involves adding one or more inkjet printers to traditional printing equipment to print variable data. Compared to mechanical coding systems, this method offers significantly improved adaptability and flexibility, expanding the scope of traditional printing and breaking the historical limitation of traditional printing being unable to print variable information. However, this method requires an additional inkjet printer, increasing operating costs; furthermore, the printable size of this inkjet printer is generally small, often failing to achieve full coverage. To address this issue, multiple inkjet printers are typically combined to increase the amount of ink printed within the width of the print, but this still cannot achieve the printing of larger-sized variable data.

[0038] With the rapid development of digital printing technology, a new type of digital printing technology based on variable data is also being promoted and applied. Variable data comes in various forms, such as images, text, and barcodes. Each variable form corresponds to a different database, such as Excel, TXT, folders, or databases. How to achieve variable data printing based on variable data is a direction of current interest in the field.

[0039] This variable data printing technology takes several forms. One approach uses variable data software to load a file and add variable data information, such as barcodes or serial numbers. Some software even supports database connections to handle larger volumes of variable information. Another similar technology is hardware-based. This hardware typically has Random Access Memory (RAM) and, in conjunction with host computer software, uploads the processed file to RAM via a data link. Then, variable data is transferred from RAM to achieve variable data printing. This variable data needs to be templated (e.g., position, size) in the front-end software to ensure that other variable data is generated and processed sequentially according to the template before being uploaded to RAM. Therefore, the biggest drawback of this approach is the high demands on data processing and RAM space when the background file is large or contains a large amount of variable data. Consequently, this technology is only suitable for common data processing with small volumes and for data with fixed background files.

[0040] The recent rise in multi-page continuous printing applications (such as books and textbooks), especially the promotion of digital printing in this industry, has further driven the wave of digital transformation. With the popularization of digital technology, various demands are emerging. To better leverage the unique advantages of digital printing, variable printing is one of the distinctive technologies within digital printing.

[0041] With the continuous upgrading and iteration of digital printing technology, its application in the industry is increasing. Most of the industry involves the simultaneous printing of multi-page documents. Under these circumstances, it has been proposed that variable data should be incorporated into the printing process for such simultaneous multi-page printing.

[0042] Current variable printing technologies, whether mechanical or inkjet, share a common characteristic: the "background" is the same. Variable data printing adds multiple or countless variable data onto the same "background".

[0043] However, the current industry demand can be understood as multiple "backgrounds" plus variable data, meaning multiple backgrounds are continuously output while variable data is added. Therefore, the sequential output of multiple backgrounds is itself a form of variable data. Adding another variable data point to the backgrounds in the context of continuous output results in two sets of variable data. This situation can be called secondary variable printing, and the data content and data change types are different. The data change type can also be called the data format or data change rule. Furthermore, if secondary variable printing is integrated into the scenario of double-sided synchronous printing, the situation becomes even more complex.

[0044] To facilitate understanding, let's use a book as a common example to illustrate secondary variable printing. Different books have different thicknesses, meaning different numbers of pages and different content on the front and back. In addition to the text, each page in a book has a page number. The conventional understanding is that the text and page number are already included in the book's design. Therefore, since the text and page number are already present on each page, why is it called secondary variable printing? Imagine a situation where the book design doesn't include page numbers, or you want to use a different, more personalized way (such as the number of line segments) to represent page numbers. In this case, page numbers need to be added separately. Based on this, some design software supports adding standard page numbers (including format, position, font, and color). These page numbers are a continuous sequence of numbers, added incrementally, thus conforming to the definition of variable data. Similarly, the main text of a book is very long. If there were a very large sheet of paper, all the content could be recorded. However, for the sake of easy carrying and reading, small sheets of paper are used to record the content. But this content requires multiple sheets of small sheets of paper. The more content there is, the more small sheets of paper are needed. Therefore, the original content is itself variable content relative to the small sheets of paper (i.e., different on each page).

[0045] Furthermore, if the entire book is considered as a unit, it is immutable. Some existing printing systems treat the entire book as a unit, leading to a series of problems. For example, the RAM space of the printhead plate in the printing equipment is insufficient to upload enough data; that is, the RAM space cannot hold the data content of the entire book. Generally, after converting the book's content into data format, the file size increases exponentially. A typical PDF document of a few megabytes can become a data file of around 20 gigabytes. This size increases with the number of pages, the width of the pages after imposition, and even the processing precision. Therefore, treating the entire book as a single file (the background) is clearly unsuitable for this type of application, and adding variable data again to create secondary variability in such applications would be extremely difficult.

[0046] Furthermore, treating all pages as a single file makes it impossible to record the actual page positions during the printing process. If subsequent reorders are needed, it's also impossible to select pages separately, resulting in significant waste.

[0047] Of course, the above examples are used to describe the implementation more clearly through application scenarios in order to better understand the actual meaning of secondary variable printing. However, in actual operation, the variable data involved in secondary variable printing is not a simple relationship between book content and page numbers.

[0048] Therefore, handling such a situation of secondary variability is a very challenging engineering task. Once the underlying architecture is established, it is difficult to reimplement this functionality. Therefore, to achieve this type of functionality, it is necessary to start from the underlying architecture.

[0049] Based on this, this application provides a data processing method, a digital printing method, and a digital printing system. Based on this data processing method, in variable data printing scenarios, printing can be achieved for multiple sets of variable data with different change attributes. These change attributes can include, for example, data content and data change type, with different sets of variable data having different data content and data change types. For example, one type of variable data can be the background data corresponding to the aforementioned "background," and another type of variable data can be data used to blend into the "background." Thus, secondary variable printing of the background and the data within the background—two types of variable data with different change attributes—can be achieved, and even multiple variable printing of two or more types of variable data with three, four, or other different change attributes can be achieved.

[0050] Furthermore, the digital printing method provided in this application embodiment can be implemented based on streaming data printing technology.

[0051] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] The implementation of the digital printing technology provided in this application relies on a digital printing system, for example, such as... Figure 1 As shown, a digital printing system typically includes data processing equipment, network communication equipment, and printing equipment.

[0053] Data processing equipment can be, for example, a personal computer (PC), which can be called a local PC, or a server such as a cloud server, used for data processing related to digital printing. This includes processes such as original design processing, variable data source processing, data fusion processing, and data transmission processing, in order to send the processed data through a streaming data architecture.

[0054] Furthermore, the local PC may include a processor for performing data processing such as data splitting, fusion, and segmentation, for example, a raster image processor (RIP) for RIP processing. The local PC may also include a local disk or local computer memory for storing data files continuously processed by the high-speed front-end RIP as a data buffer. Of course, the local PC may also include other components related to implementing the data processing method and digital printing method provided in this application.

[0055] Network communication equipment is used to enable communication between two electronic devices. For example, it can be a gigabit or 10-gigabit switch. In the digital printing process, it is used to distribute large amounts of data sent from the local PC to the printing equipment for printing.

[0056] Printing equipment is a specific component used to achieve printing, including multiple printing modules, such as multiple printhead printing plates, some of which are used for front-side printing and the rest for back-side printing.

[0057] Furthermore, the printhead PCB also includes memory (e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM)) as a data buffer to store data sent from the local PC. The printhead PCB is used to perform front-end data reception and print signal conversion processing to convert the data sent from the front end into print signals.

[0058] In addition, the printing module includes multiple printheads or nozzles for working with the printhead printing plate to receive printing signals from the printhead driver board and perform printing processing. These printheads or nozzles can print different colors. Of course, the printing module may also include other printing units related to the printing process, which can be configured as needed.

[0059] Of course, printing equipment also includes other components related to printing, which will not be discussed here.

[0060] The aforementioned local PC, switch, and printing equipment, as the basic architecture corresponding to streaming printing technology, can realize streaming printing data. Streaming printing data refers to storing the data source on the local PC, transmitting the printing data through a network via at least a 10 Gigabit switch, and using a first-in-first-out (FIFO) queue mechanism in the hardware of the printing equipment to store and print the printing data, thereby realizing the transmission and printing of streaming data.

[0061] Specifically, in the process of digital printing, relevant personnel first design the original design to be printed, and then store the original design on a local PC. The local PC uses the original design as the source data to be printed and performs relevant data processing to obtain multiple data files for printing. The data files are then sent to the corresponding printing module, including the printhead printing plate, through a switch. The printhead printing plate in the printing module performs printing processing according to the received data files.

[0062] based on Figure 1 The digital printing system described herein, in an embodiment of this application, also provides a digital printing method, which includes a data processing procedure. Exemplarily, in one embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the data processing steps included in this digital printing method are as follows:

[0063] S100, determine the source data to be printed. The source data includes multiple sets of variable data, and the change attributes of different sets of variable data are different.

[0064] The original design draft is saved on a local PC. This draft may contain two types of variable content with different change attributes, or two sets of variable data with different change attributes. One type of variable content is considered primary variable, therefore the original design draft can be considered to contain secondary variable content. The secondary variable content in the original design draft can be preliminarily designed manually or automatically on the local PC. This includes template-related preliminary designs for variable data sources, positions, sizes, colors, shapes / fonts, and change logic. The preliminarily designed original design draft is then used as the source data for printing. It's important to understand that the original design draft is only a sample draft. Because it contains variable data, the final output content (i.e., the actual output draft) is not identical to the original design draft. The actual output draft is based on the rules defined in the original design draft.

[0065] In one embodiment of this application, the change attribute includes data content and data change type, and the data content and data change type of different groups of variable data corresponding to different change attributes are different.

[0066] Furthermore, the multiple sets of variable data include, for example, a first set of variable data and a second set of variable data. The data in the first set of variable data has a finite cycle period, while the data in the second set of variable data has an infinite cycle period. Therefore, the data change type of the first set of variable data is a finite cycle period change type, and the data change type of the second set of variable data is an infinite cycle period change type.

[0067] Furthermore, the first set of variable data includes multiple first data, each of which is different data used to merge with the printing background data corresponding to a certain printing background file; the second set of variable data includes multiple second data, each of which is the printing background data corresponding to different printing background files.

[0068] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 In the diagram, A and B represent the secondary variable data areas in the original design. The secondary variable logic has one more layer of variable content than the original single variable logic; you can refer to the logic in the textbook mentioned earlier for understanding. Therefore, the logic of secondary variable logic involves the simultaneous existence of two types of variable information. These two types of variable information are the two different change attributes mentioned above. Furthermore, one type of variable information refers to, for example, the different backgrounds mentioned earlier, not two different types of variable information corresponding to the same background. In addition, both types of variable information have their own change attributes, including data change type, which can also be understood as change rules.

[0069] For example, the rules for changing two types of variable information can be described as follows.

[0070] Variable A, corresponding to the first set of variable data, is a variable type with a "finite cycle period." For example, it transforms from 1 to 100 using an increasing or decreasing cycle, and it has a fixed cycle period W and a fixed number of cycles N. The finite cycle period refers to the cycle equivalent, which is a relatively fixed value; the number of cycles refers to the number of cycle periods, which is not a fixed parameter.

[0071] Variable B, corresponding to the second set of variable data, is a variable type with the characteristic of "infinite cycle". For example, it can change from 1 to N according to a set rule, with only an infinite cycle at the cutoff point M. The cutoff point is determined by the number of cycles.

[0072] The formula for the combination of variable A and variable B is: M = W x N.

[0073] Once the data source is determined, corresponding data processing is performed on the source data. This data processing may include, for example, data splitting, data type conversion, data fusion, and data segmentation. For instance, data processing includes the following steps S200-S600.

[0074] S200 extracts each set of variable data from the source data.

[0075] Extracting each set of variable data from the source data can be understood as variable data splitting. For example, variable data splitting can be performed on a local PC, based on the original design draft after the aforementioned design, splitting variable A and variable B into two independent design draft files, thus obtaining two sets of variable data files. Each set of variable data files has its own independent change method and change rule based on the variable data source. Furthermore, the variable data file split from variable A can be called the first set of variable data source A1, and the variable data file split from variable B can be called the second set of variable data source B1.

[0076] S300 performs data type conversion processing on each group of variable data to obtain multiple corresponding target variable data, and makes different target variable data correspond to different identification information.

[0077] Data type conversion processing, for example, can involve using a dedicated RIP to process two sets of variable data files on a local PC. During RIP processing, the same RIP parameters must be used because the RIP-processed file is stored in binary format, completely different from the original variable data file in terms of format and content. Furthermore, this RIP can be a multi-core high-speed RIP to ensure high-speed binary file output. High-speed binary file output is necessary to meet printing speed requirements and to support streaming data processing logic. This allows for simultaneous RIP and streaming data transfer, eliminating the need to wait for all loop data to be output before transferring the output binary file. Otherwise, it would consume a large amount of local computer disk space, making it unsuitable for scenarios with extremely large loop volumes.

[0078] Furthermore, data type conversion is performed on each set of variable data to obtain the target variable data corresponding to each set of variable data. This includes: synchronously performing data type conversion on multiple sets of variable data until the data type conversion of each set of variable data is completed, and storing the corresponding target variable data in the target cache pool.

[0079] Taking two-stage variable printing as an example, the data type conversion processes of the first group of variable data and the second group of variable data are performed simultaneously until the data type conversion processes of the first group of variable data and the second group of variable data are completed. The corresponding target variable data is then stored in the target cache pool.

[0080] Specifically, after performing data type conversion on the two sets of variable data, the resulting two sets of data can be called the target variable data, such as including... Figure 3The first set of variable data A1 and the second set of variable data B1 are shown.

[0081] Furthermore, the local PC's local disk can be used as a data buffer pool (i.e., the target buffer pool) to receive data files continuously processed by the front-end high-speed RIP, or the local PC's memory can be used as a data buffer pool to receive data files continuously processed by the front-end high-speed RIP.

[0082] Furthermore, regardless of the data storage method, the two sets of data files output by the RIP need to be assigned independent identification information. There are various ways to assign independent identification information, such as adding different annotations to each target variable data so that different target variable data correspond to different identification information. For example, adding XML information annotations or adding corresponding annotations to the data file header are both possible. Alternatively, each target variable data can be stored in different storage locations, such as in different folders, so that different target variable data correspond to different identification information. Different identification methods are suitable for different data buffer formats. The main function of independent identification is to distinguish different data types (variable A and variable B). The matching rules for variable A and variable B include finite cycle equivalent, finite number of cycles, and infinite cycle cutoff point, etc.

[0083] To meet the characteristics of streaming data transmission, variable A and variable B have certain matching rules during data processing. Therefore, the two sets of variable data files need to be processed synchronously. Since the content of each set of variable data is inconsistent, the speed of RIP will also be different. Therefore, the RIP software automatically sends the completed data. For the incomplete data or the data that is not processed synchronously, a waiting logic is adopted according to the matching rules until both sets of data are processed and then sent to the buffer pool together.

[0084] Of course, data type conversion processing can be other than RIP, or it can include other processing besides RIP, which can be set as needed.

[0085] S400 identifies target variable data based on identification information, performs matching processing on target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data, and performs fusion processing on target variable data that meet the matching conditions to obtain multiple fused data.

[0086] Taking secondary variable printing as an example, target variable data is identified based on identification information, and target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data are matched. Target variable data that meet the matching conditions are fused to obtain multiple fused data. This includes: when stored data is detected in the target cache pool, the target variable data corresponding to the first group of variable data and the target variable data corresponding to the second group of variable data are matched one by one based on the identification information of the stored data. Target variable data that meet the matching conditions are fused to obtain multiple fused data.

[0087] Data fusion processing is a crucial step in secondary variable printing technology. The local PC refreshes the buffer pool (e.g., local disk or memory) in real time based on the printing software. When incoming data is detected, it automatically identifies two sets of variable data (variable A and variable B) based on the identification information. Simultaneously, it automatically matches the two sets of data, and then performs binary data fusion on those that meet the matching criteria. The fusion calculation can be performed using computer hardware, and its data fusion processing capability far exceeds that of conventional onboard devices such as Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) chips.

[0088] Before data fusion, the local PC first distinguishes between "variable A" and "variable B" based on the identification information. Then, it matches the data of variable A and variable B based on the identification information and performs binary data fusion according to the algorithm until the first cycle is reached. After the first cycle is completed, the first cycle is matched with the subsequent content of variable B again until the cutoff point is reached.

[0089] Furthermore, variable B can be understood as the aforementioned variable printing background data, and variable A can be understood as the aforementioned variable data used for merging with the printing background data.

[0090] Similarly, variable A and variable B can also be in another form, where both variable A and variable B are in an infinite loop state. In this case, a stop point needs to be manually set. During data fusion, the matching rules for variable A and variable B are still followed, but the concepts of loop period and number of loops are no longer present. Therefore, the loop needs to be stopped according to the set stop point.

[0091] Furthermore, when both variable A and variable B are in finite cycle states, their cycle periods must be identical, and the number of cycles must also be the same; otherwise, data mismatch will occur during fusion. Similarly, after the buffer pool receives data, it automatically merges variable A and variable B according to the matching rules of the identifier information. At this point, the cutoff point is the number of cycles as the end point of the cycle.

[0092] In summary, the variable types of variable A and variable B can be either finite-cycle or infinite-cycle. Of course, variable A and variable B can also be other variable types, which can be set as needed.

[0093] For example, one type of fused data can be as follows: Figure 3 As shown, it includes A1 and B1.

[0094] Furthermore, the matching conditions can be set as needed, which will not be elaborated here. Additionally, data fusion can be performed either in the FPGA's cache or in the computer's hardware memory, depending on the configuration.

[0095] The amount of data after merging is larger than before, so a multi-core RIP combined with streaming data solution can be adopted. In this case, the process from data processing to sending is simply a single iteration. Once the data is printed, it is cleared, including local data, so it does not continuously occupy computing space for a long time. This is very suitable for secondary variable printing of large quantities of large-size documents.

[0096] The S500 segments the fused data to obtain multiple target printing data for printing.

[0097] For example, the fused data is segmented to obtain multiple target printing data, including: segmenting the fused data according to the number of printing modules included in the printing equipment to obtain multiple target printing data, wherein the data size of the target printing data is the same as the data size of the printing module, and each target printing data has corresponding identification information to indicate different target printing data, or to indicate the printing module corresponding to different target printing data.

[0098] Specifically, data segmentation processing can refer to the fused data being segmented again. In this case, the local PC divides the entire data into pieces with the same width as the data of a single printhead printing board (also known as a board, printhead printing board, or printhead driver board). The sheet-like data is transformed into strips so that the data size of the resulting data is the same as the data size of the printing module.

[0099] Furthermore, each data strip can have its own independent label, which corresponds one-to-one with the printhead plate ID. The printhead plate ID and the label of the data strip are unique and non-repeating within a single device.

[0100] The printhead printing plate ID serves as an example of identification information for the target print data obtained through segmentation, used to indicate the printing module corresponding to different target print data. Of course, the identification information for the target print data can also include other information, which can be set as needed.

[0101] Furthermore, after obtaining the target printing data for printing based on the above data processing steps, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the digital printing method provided in this application further includes the following steps:

[0102] S600, data transmission and printing.

[0103] Once the target printing data is obtained, printing processing can be carried out based on the target printing data.

[0104] Specifically, the target printing data is the aforementioned data strip with an ID. This data strip is sent from the local PC to the corresponding printhead printing plate via the 10 Gigabit network provided by the 10 Gigabit switch, using a protocol such as Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP).

[0105] In addition to having a unique ID, the data strips sent this time can also have a sequence number. The sequence number is the unique credential for first-in-first-out and is also a reference mark to ensure that variable A and variable B are output in sequence.

[0106] Furthermore, the sequence number can serve as another example of identification information for the target printed data obtained through segmentation, used to indicate the printing order of the target printed data. Of course, the identification information for the target printed data can also include other information, which can be set as needed.

[0107] Data stripes are transmitted via a 10 Gigabit network provided by a 10 Gigabit switch, which uses ID numbers to locate specific printhead printing plates. During data transmission, after the printhead printing plate verifies the data, its buffer receives the corresponding data. The data is then stored in the buffer according to its ID number and priority. At the start of printing, the data undergoes digital-to-analog conversion based on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) principle. Finally, the printhead or nozzle executes droplet ejection, resulting in a final output document with variable output dimensions.

[0108] In summary, the data processing method provided by the embodiments of this application includes the above-described steps S100-S500, and the digital printing method provided by the embodiments of this application includes the above-described steps S100-S600.

[0109] Furthermore, in this implementation, a 10 Gigabit switch is used to enable a local PC to send streaming data to multiple printhead printing plates. The purpose of using a 10 Gigabit switch is to meet the characteristics of streaming data transmission. During printing, the substrate is transported by a conveyor mechanism, resulting in various scenarios such as acceleration, constant speed, and deceleration. As the printing speed changes, the bandwidth of the streaming data transmission also changes. The maximum bandwidth of the 10 Gigabit switch can meet the streaming data transmission requirements at the highest printing speed. The data transmission process also differs from other variable data printing methods, which are either one-to-one or one-to-many. In a one-to-one scenario, multiple links exist on the computer, and data can only be sent to the printhead printing plates through a designated link. In a one-to-many scenario, data transmission generally does not change with the printing speed. In one-to-many scenarios, background data is mostly uploaded to the printhead printing plates, and then variable data is continuously sent. Implementing data fusion and output in RAM is a design choice to reduce transmission bandwidth. Since the data volume is small, the maximum bandwidth requirement is not high, and therefore a gigabit network is generally used.

[0110] In the digital printing method provided in this application, the data network transmits data based on 10 Gigabit bandwidth, with data throughput ranging from 2 Gb to 20 Gb per second. Data is addressed via IP, ensuring correct transmission to the designated printhead driver board. The printhead printing board has a data receiving buffer. Data is stored in the buffer in priority order, maintaining a first-in, first-out (FIFO) principle. The data is sequentially converted into analog signals required by the printhead or nozzle, enabling data output and thus achieving single-sided secondary variable data printing. Similarly, in this mode, the distribution of variable data on both sides can be achieved. When printing variable data on both sides simultaneously, a buffer mechanism is used for control to ensure synchronization of the data. Since variable data is generally not printed simultaneously on both sides, and the two printing groups have a certain object distance, the variable data on both sides is transmitted synchronously. However, after being received by the printhead printing board, it is stored in the buffer in priority order. A marker is output simultaneously with the output of the front side. The back side monitors the position after the front side output is completed and calculates the starting point of the back side variable data output synchronously by detecting the front side marker, thereby achieving double-sided secondary variable printing. Based on this logic, for double-sided variable printing, regardless of whether the positions of the two printing groups are 0 or greater than or equal to 0, double-sided variable data printing can be achieved.

[0111] In summary, the digital printing method provided in this application offers a secondary variable printing technology compared to single-print variable printing technology. Single-print variable printing, as mentioned earlier, can be understood as variable data based on the background. Regardless of the number of variable data points on the same background, it can only be called single-print variable printing. The scenario of using multiple sets of inkjet printers working simultaneously, also mentioned earlier, can theoretically be called single-print variable printing as it lacks background layer data and only contains variable data, unlike background-based variable printing. Secondary variable printing involves two types of variable printing: one is the aforementioned background variable printing, and the other is the variable content within the background.

[0112] Based on the technical solution provided in this application, the original single-transformation based on a background image is improved into a completely transformable double-transformation. Therefore, combining the logic of single-transformation, adding a background image to the transformation from A to B is also within the scope of the technical solution provided in this application. Only one more background image needs to be introduced to achieve double-transformation based on a background image. Furthermore, the key technical points of double-transformation are: streaming data transmission, fusion of variable data, and a wider variety of variable data types (graphics, images, text, dates, barcodes, databases, etc.). Combined with high-speed RIP and 10 Gigabit networks, it can achieve larger-size and larger-volume transformation methods.

[0113] Furthermore, in some other embodiments of this application, the first variable data group and the second variable data group may also be other variable data besides the aforementioned background data and the data fused into the background, which can be set as needed.

[0114] Furthermore, in some other embodiments of this application, the variable data group may also include other variable data groups such as a third variable data group and a fourth variable data group, and their data types can be set as needed. The aforementioned data fusion processing can be performed on the target variable data corresponding to multiple groups of variable data to obtain corresponding fused data. The fusion logic is similar to that described above and will not be repeated here. In this way, multiple printings of variable data can be achieved.

[0115] Therefore, based on the technical solution provided by the embodiments of this application, on the basis of the secondary variable printing technology, it is also possible to print more types of variable data in addition to the two types of variable data. Thus, multiple variable printing technology can also be realized, thereby improving the richness of variable data printing and thus better realizing variable data printing, thereby better meeting the printing needs of users.

[0116] Furthermore, when the data volume is small, the aforementioned digital printing system may include a local PC as a data processing device and a gigabit or 10-gigabit switch as a network communication device to provide gigabit or 10-gigabit Ethernet. When the data volume is large, the aforementioned digital printing system may include a server as a data processing device and a 10-gigabit switch as a network communication device to provide 10-gigabit Ethernet. Of course, the devices included in the aforementioned digital printing system can be specifically configured according to printing requirements. And, as mentioned above, the basic software components of this digital printing system include RIP-related software, printing system-related software related to network interface communication, and FPGA cache-related software related to board cache, etc., which can be specifically configured as needed.

[0117] See Figure 5 , Figure 5 The diagram shown is a structural block diagram of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device can be a data processing device such as a PC or server. Figure 5 As shown, the electronic device may include: transceiver 121, processor 122, and memory 123.

[0118] The processor 122 executes computer execution instructions stored in the memory, causing the processor 122 to perform part of the technical solutions of the data processing method or digital printing method in the above embodiments. The processor 122 can be a general-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), etc.; it can also be a digital data processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components.

[0119] The memory 123 is connected to the processor 122 via the system bus and completes communication between them. The memory 123 is used to store computer program instructions.

[0120] Transceiver 121 can be used to obtain the task to be run and its configuration information.

[0121] The system bus can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. The system bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, only one thick line is used in the diagram, but this does not indicate that there is only one bus or one type of bus. Transceivers are used to enable communication between database access devices and other computers (e.g., clients, read-write libraries, and read-only libraries). Memory may include random access memory (RAM) and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0122] This application also provides a chip for executing instructions, which is used to execute the technical solutions of the data processing method or the digital printing method in the above embodiments.

[0123] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions / programs. When the computer instructions / programs are run on the processor of an electronic device, the processor of the electronic device executes the technical solution of the data processing method or the technical solution of the digital printing method described in the above embodiments.

[0124] In some possible implementations, various aspects of the methods provided in this application may also be implemented as a program product, which includes program code. When the program product is run on the processor of an electronic device, the program code is used to cause the processor of the electronic device to perform the steps of the methods in the various exemplary embodiments of this application described above. For example, the electronic device may perform the data processing method or digital printing method described in the embodiments of this application.

[0125] This application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program / instruction stored in a computer-readable storage medium. At least one processor can read the computer program / instruction from the computer-readable storage medium. When the at least one processor executes the computer program / instruction, it can implement the technical solution of the data processing method or the technical solution of the digital printing method in the above embodiments.

[0126] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of the methods, apparatus, and computer program products according to this application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable information processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable information processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0127] It should be noted that, in addition to the specific embodiments described above, those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this application from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of this application is presented in conjunction with preferred embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this invention are limited to these embodiments. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the invention in conjunction with the embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of this application. To provide a thorough understanding of this application, many specific details are included in the above description, and this application may also be implemented without using these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of this application, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0128] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0129] Although this application has been illustrated and described with reference to certain embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art should understand that the above description is a further detailed explanation of this application in conjunction with specific embodiments, and should not be construed as limiting the specific implementation of this application to these descriptions. Those skilled in the art can make various changes in form and detail, including some simple deductions or substitutions, without departing from the spirit and scope of this application.

Claims

1. A data processing method, characterized in that, Applied to a data processing device, the method includes: The source data to be printed is determined. The source data includes a variety of variable information, each of which has different change attributes. The change attributes include data content and data change type. The source data is a pre-designed original design draft, which is obtained by preliminary design based on the variety of variable information. Each type of variable information is extracted from the source data to split the multiple variable information into multiple independent design draft files, thereby obtaining multiple sets of variable data. The data content of each set of variable data is different, and the data change type is either a finite cycle change type or an infinite cycle change type. Each set of variable data includes multiple different variable data. Each variable data in each group is processed using the same raster image processing parameters and then processed by a multi-core raster image processor. The processed data is then stored in a target cache pool in a streaming manner to obtain the target variable data corresponding to each group of variable data. Different target variable data are assigned different identification information, which is used to distinguish different data types. The target variable data is a binary file with a format and content completely different from the original design draft. The target cache pool is refreshed in real time. When data is detected to be stored in the target cache pool, the target variable data is identified based on the identification information. The target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data is matched one by one. The target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data that meet the matching conditions are subjected to binary data fusion processing to obtain multiple fused data. Based on the number of printhead drive boards corresponding to the printing modules included in the printing equipment, the fused data is segmented to obtain multiple target printing data. The target printing data is a data strip, and the data size of the target printing data is the same as the data size of the printhead drive board. Each target printing data has corresponding identification information and a serial number. The identification information of each target printing data corresponds to the ID of the corresponding printhead drive board, which is used to indicate the printhead drive board corresponding to different target printing data. The serial number is the first-in, first-out credential of the target printing data. The target printing data, along with its corresponding identification information and serial number, is streamed to a network communication device. The network communication device determines the printhead driver board corresponding to the target printing data based on the identification information and streams the target printing data and serial number to the corresponding printhead driver board. After verifying the data, the printhead driver board stores the received target printing data in its buffer pool according to the serial number and priority. Upon starting printing, the printhead driver board performs analog-to-digital conversion on the target printing data according to the order stored in the buffer pool, following a first-in-first-out principle. This converts the data into analog signals required by the printhead for data output. Finally, the corresponding printhead executes droplet ejection, resulting in multiple variable printouts for the final printing process.

2. The data processing method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The data content and the types of data changes are different for the variable data in different groups.

3. The data processing method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multiple sets of variable data include a first set of variable data and a second set of variable data. The data change type of the first set of variable data is a finite cycle change type, and the data change type of the second set of variable data is an infinite cycle change type, with the end point of the infinite cycle set manually; or The data change type of the first set of variable data is a finite cycle periodic change type, and the data change type of the second set of variable data is a finite cycle periodic change type. The cycle period and number of cycles of the first set of variable data are the same as the cycle period and number of cycles of the second set of variable data, respectively; or The data change type of the first set of variable data is an infinite cycle change type, and the data change type of the second set of variable data is an infinite cycle change type, with the end point of the infinite cycle set manually.

4. The data processing method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first set of variable data includes multiple first data, each of which is different data used for fusion with printing background data. The second set of variable data includes multiple second data, each of which is different printing background data.

5. The data processing method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The target variable data is identified based on the identification information, and the target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data is matched one by one. The target variable data corresponding to different groups of variable data that meet the matching conditions are fused to obtain multiple fused data, including: Based on the identification information of the stored data, the target variable data corresponding to the first group of variable data and the target variable data corresponding to the second group of variable data are matched one by one. The target variable data corresponding to the first group of variable data and the target variable data corresponding to the second group of variable data that meet the matching conditions are fused to obtain multiple fused data.

6. The data processing method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, To correspond different target variable data to different identification information, including: Add different labels to each of the target variable data so that different target variable data correspond to different identification information; or Each of the target variable data is stored in a different storage location so that different target variable data correspond to different identification information.

7. A digital printing method, characterized in that, The method, applied to a printhead drive board corresponding to a printing module in printing equipment, includes: Printing processing is performed based on target printing data, which is obtained by the data processing method as described in any one of claims 1-6.

8. A digital printing system, characterized in that, It includes data processing equipment, network communication equipment, and printing equipment. The printing equipment includes multiple printing modules, and each printing module includes a printhead drive board. The data processing device is used to obtain multiple target printing data and send the multiple target printing data to the corresponding printhead drive board through the network communication device. The multiple target printing data are obtained by the data processing device according to the data processing method as described in any one of claims 1-6. The printhead drive board is used to perform printing processing based on the received target printing data.

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