A printing control method and system
By using intelligent printing control methods and systems, printhead status is monitored and compensated for in real time, solving printing defects caused by printhead clogging or damage, and achieving an efficient and automated printing process.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- KOCEL INTELLIGENT MACHINERY LIMITED
- Filing Date
- 2024-10-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-12
AI Technical Summary
In inkjet powder-coated printing technology, blank blocks caused by nozzle clogging or damage are difficult to detect in time, affecting the strength and forming quality of the printed model. Moreover, the problem is usually only discovered after printing is completed.
The system employs intelligent printing control methods and systems, which collect and analyze printed images in real time through an image monitoring system, provide feedback on defect information, and perform compensatory printing based on printhead status information, including printhead movement adjustment and parameter optimization, to ensure the automation and continuity of the printing process.
It enables immediate compensation printing when printhead defects are detected, avoiding downtime, improving printing efficiency and quality, reducing manual intervention, and ensuring a highly efficient and convenient printing process.
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing method technology, and in particular to a printing control method and system. Background Technology
[0002] 3DP (3D printing) is an advanced manufacturing technology that relies on precise software control to allow the printhead to move accurately according to the two-dimensional data of the model's cross-section. During printing, the printhead selectively sprays binder at specific locations, which binds the powder material together, layer by layer, to ultimately form the desired three-dimensional model.
[0003] However, in practical applications, inkjet toner printing technology also faces a series of challenges. Because the binder typically has a certain viscosity, this can lead to partial nozzle clogging or damage during prolonged use. When the printhead is clogged or damaged, it cannot spray the binder at the corresponding locations, resulting in blank areas where the binder cannot be sprayed during printing. These blank areas, as they accumulate layer by layer, reduce the strength of the printed model and may cause various forming defects such as cracks and deformation.
[0004] More seriously, these problems are often difficult to detect in a timely manner during the printing process. Blank areas caused by printhead clogging or damage are usually only observable after printing is complete, making problem detection and resolution extremely difficult. Therefore, effectively solving printhead clogging or damage problems and improving the strength and quality of printed models has become a critical issue that urgently needs to be addressed in current inkjet powder-based printing technology. Summary of the Invention
[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a printing control method and system to effectively solve the problem of printhead clogging or damage so as to ensure that the entire printing operation can be completed in one go.
[0006] To solve the above problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:
[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention disclose a printing control method, comprising the following steps:
[0008] Load the image for the current layer to be printed, and control the printhead to move on the work platform and spray ink through the print control system to complete the printing of the current layer;
[0009] The printing control system sends the end-of-print information for the current layer to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system captures and identifies the printed image of the current layer, and then sends the defect information of the printed image of the current layer back to the printing control system. If no defects are found in the current layer, the printing process continues.
[0010] When the image monitoring system reports a defect in the current layer of printed image, the print control system controls the printhead to move to the test page printing area to perform printhead status detection and receives printhead status information from the image monitoring system.
[0011] Based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system, the printing control system performs corresponding defect compensation printing of the printed image;
[0012] Repeat the above printing logic until the entire printing task is completed.
[0013] In one embodiment, the step of performing corresponding print image defect compensation printing based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system includes:
[0014] The defect information and printhead status information are compared and analyzed. If the defect information indicates a large defect, the defect in the printed image is compensated by printing multiple back-and-forth printing operations.
[0015] In one embodiment, defect information and printhead status information are matched and analyzed to accurately determine the compensation printing range, ensuring that the range completely matches the defect range present in the printed image.
[0016] In one embodiment, the printing control system automatically adjusts printing parameters, such as printhead movement speed and ink volume, based on defect information and printhead status information to perform compensatory printing.
[0017] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention disclose a printing control system, including the printing control method described above, comprising:
[0018] The loading control module is used to load the image to be printed in the current layer. It controls the printhead to move on the work platform and spray ink through the print control system to complete the printing of the current layer.
[0019] The print control module is used by the print control system to send the printing completion information of the current layer to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system acquires and identifies the printed image of the current layer, and then sends the defect information of the printed image of the current layer back to the print control system. If there are no defects in the current layer, the printing work continues.
[0020] The image detection module is used to control the print control system to move the printhead to the test page printing area to perform printhead status detection when the image monitoring system reports a defect in the current layer of printed image, and to receive printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system.
[0021] The defect handling module is used to perform corresponding defect compensation printing of the printed image based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system;
[0022] The logic control module is used to repeatedly execute the above printing logic until the entire printing task is completed.
[0023] In one embodiment, the defect processing module includes a defect processing unit, which is used to compare and analyze defect information and nozzle status information. If the defect information indicates a large defect, the defect in the printed image is compensated by printing multiple back-and-forth printing operations.
[0024] In one embodiment, the defect processing module further includes a defect matching analysis unit, which is used to perform matching analysis on defect information and nozzle status information to accurately determine the compensation printing range and ensure that the range completely matches the defect range in the printed image.
[0025] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention disclose a computer, comprising:
[0026] The system includes a memory and a processor, which are interconnected. The memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes these computer instructions to perform the printing control method described above.
[0027] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention disclose a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing the computer to execute the printing control method described above.
[0028] The technical solution adopted in this invention can achieve the following beneficial effects:
[0029] The printing control method disclosed in this invention utilizes an intelligent monitoring and compensation mechanism. Upon detecting print image defects, it immediately performs printhead status detection and executes corresponding compensatory printing operations based on the detection results, allowing printing to continue without downtime. This significantly improves printing efficiency and reduces production delays caused by downtime. The image monitoring system can acquire and analyze print images in real time, accurately identifying potential printing defects. The printing control system then intelligently adjusts the printhead movement trajectory, increases ink volume, or activates a backup printhead based on this defect information to ensure that the image quality of subsequent print layers is not affected. This effectively avoids print quality degradation caused by printhead clogging or damage. The invented printing control method achieves automated monitoring and control of the printing process, reducing the need for manual intervention. This not only improves production efficiency but also reduces labor costs, making the printing process more efficient and convenient. Attached Figure Description
[0030] none Detailed Implementation
[0031] This invention can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and complete understanding of the disclosure of this invention.
[0032] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "end," "top," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.
[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0034] This invention discloses a printing control method, which includes the following steps:
[0035] The system loads the image for the current layer to be printed, and controls the printhead to move on the work platform and spray ink according to the image data through the print control system. The system first loads the image for the current layer corresponding to the user-defined 3D model. Through the print control system, the movement trajectory of the printhead on the work platform is precisely controlled, and ink is sprayed according to the image data to complete the printing task for the current layer.
[0036] The print control system sends a print completion signal to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system captures and identifies the printed image of the current layer, then sends defect information back to the print control system. If no defects are found, printing continues. Once the current layer is finished, the print control system sends a print completion signal to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system then captures the printed image of the current layer and analyzes it using advanced image recognition technology. After identification, the image monitoring system sends defect information (if any) back to the print control system. If no defects are found, the system automatically proceeds to the next layer's print preparation stage.
[0037] When the image monitoring system reports a defect in the current layer's printed image, the print control system moves the printhead to the test page printing area to perform printhead status detection and receives printhead status information from the image monitoring system. When the image monitoring system detects a defect in the current layer's printed image, the print control system responds immediately, moving the printhead to the preset test page printing area. In the test page printing area, the system executes the printhead status detection program, the image monitoring system acquires the test page image, and sends printhead status information back to the print control system.
[0038] Based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system, the printing control system performs corresponding defect compensation printing. The printing control system conducts a comprehensive analysis based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system. Based on the analysis results, the printing control system performs corresponding defect compensation printing to correct the identified defects.
[0039] Repeat the above printing logic until the entire printing task is completed. The system will repeatedly execute the above printing logic (from step one to step four), printing layer by layer until all layers of the entire 3D model have been successfully printed and the image monitoring system confirms that there are no defects. At this point, the entire printing task is complete.
[0040] As described above, the printing control method disclosed in this invention utilizes an intelligent monitoring and compensation mechanism. Upon detecting print image defects, it immediately performs printhead status detection and executes corresponding compensatory printing operations based on the detection results, allowing printing to continue without downtime. This significantly improves printing efficiency and reduces production delays caused by downtime. The image monitoring system can collect and analyze print images in real time, accurately identifying potential printing defects. The printing control system then intelligently adjusts the printhead movement trajectory, increases ink volume, or activates a backup printhead based on this defect information to ensure that the image quality of subsequent print layers is not affected. This effectively avoids print quality degradation caused by printhead clogging or damage. The invented printing control method achieves automated monitoring and control of the printing process, reducing the need for manual intervention. This not only improves production efficiency but also reduces labor costs, making the printing process more efficient and convenient.
[0041] Furthermore, the step of the printing control system performing corresponding print image defect compensation printing based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system may specifically include:
[0042] By comparing and analyzing defect information and printhead status information, if the defect information indicates a large defect, multiple back-and-forth printing operations are performed to compensate for the defect in the printed image. In this case, by comprehensively analyzing the defect information and printhead status information, the system can accurately determine the type and scale of defects in the printed image. When the defect information indicates a large defect, the system can automatically trigger the compensation printing mechanism, precisely aligning and repairing the defective area through multiple back-and-forth printing operations. This method not only improves print quality but also ensures the integrity and consistency of the printed image. Simultaneously, it ensures that the printed workpiece is printed completely in one go, preventing downtime from affecting print quality.
[0043] Furthermore, in the embodiments disclosed in this invention, defect information and printhead status information are matched and analyzed to accurately determine the compensation printing range, ensuring that this range completely matches the defect range present in the printed image. In this case, by matching and analyzing defect information and printhead status information, the compensation printing range can be accurately determined, ensuring that the compensation area completely corresponds to the actual defect area in the printed image, avoiding over-compensation or under-compensation, and improving print quality. Simultaneously, this method achieves automated adjustment of printing parameters, directly adjusting key parameters such as printhead movement speed and ink volume based on the results of the matching analysis, without manual intervention, thus improving printing efficiency and accuracy. By performing the compensation printing operation, identified print image defects can be effectively corrected, improving the overall quality of printed products and customer satisfaction.
[0044] In one alternative embodiment, the printing control system automatically adjusts printing parameters, such as printhead movement speed and ink volume, based on defect information and printhead status information to perform compensatory printing.
[0045] Based on the printing control method disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention, the present invention also discloses a printing control system, including the printing control method described in any of the above embodiments, wherein the disclosed printing control system includes:
[0046] The loading control module is used to load the image to be printed in the current layer. It controls the printhead to move on the work platform and spray ink through the print control system to complete the printing of the current layer.
[0047] The print control module is used by the print control system to send the printing completion information of the current layer to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system acquires and identifies the printed image of the current layer, and then sends the defect information of the printed image of the current layer back to the print control system. If there are no defects in the current layer, the printing work continues.
[0048] The image detection module is used to control the print control system to move the printhead to the test page printing area to perform printhead status detection when the image monitoring system reports a defect in the current layer of printed image, and to receive printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system.
[0049] The defect handling module is used to perform corresponding defect compensation printing of the printed image based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system;
[0050] The logic control module is used to repeatedly execute the above printing logic until the entire printing task is completed.
[0051] As described above, in the printing control system for public classroom milk in this embodiment of the invention, the printing image is accurately loaded and printed onto the work platform through the loading control module. After printing is completed, the printing control module immediately triggers the image monitoring system to collect and identify the current layer of printed image, and quickly provides feedback on defect information. If there are no defects, the printing task continues; once a defect is detected, the image detection module immediately starts printhead status detection to ensure accurate printhead status information is obtained. Based on this information, the defect handling module intelligently executes compensation printing operations to accurately correct image defects. The logic control module ensures seamless connection of the entire process until the printing task is successfully completed. This process not only significantly improves print quality but also greatly enhances printing efficiency and automation, ensuring the quality of printed products.
[0052] Optionally, the defect processing module includes a defect processing unit, which is used to compare and analyze defect information and nozzle status information. If the defect information indicates a large defect, the defect in the printed image is compensated by printing multiple back-and-forth printing operations.
[0053] Optionally, the defect processing module further includes a defect matching analysis unit, which is used to perform matching analysis on defect information and nozzle status information to accurately determine the compensation printing range and ensure that the range completely matches the defect range in the printed image.
[0054] Based on the printing control method disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention, the present invention discloses a computer, comprising:
[0055] The system includes a memory and a processor, which are interconnected. The memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes these computer instructions to perform the printing control method described in any of the above embodiments.
[0056] Based on the printing control method disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention, the present invention discloses a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions, which are used to cause the computer to execute the printing control method described in any of the above embodiments.
[0057] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of this invention patent should be determined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A printing control method, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Load the image for the current layer to be printed, and control the printhead to move on the work platform and spray ink through the print control system to complete the printing of the current layer; The printing control system sends the printing completion information of the current layer to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system acquires and identifies the printed image of the current layer, and then sends the defect information of the printed image of the current layer back to the printing control system. If the current layer reports no defects, continue printing. When the image monitoring system reports a defect in the current layer of printed image, the print control system controls the printhead to move to the test page printing area to perform printhead status detection and receives printhead status information from the image monitoring system. Based on the defect information and nozzle status information fed back by the image monitoring system, the defect information and nozzle status information are compared and analyzed. If the defect information indicates a large defect, the defect in the printed image is compensated by printing multiple back-and-forth printing operations. The defect information and printhead status information are matched and analyzed to accurately determine the compensation printing range and ensure that the range completely matches the defect range in the printed image. Repeat the above printing logic until the entire printing task is completed.
2. The printing control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The printing control system automatically adjusts printing parameters based on defect information and printhead status information to perform compensatory printing.
3. A printing control system, executing the printing control method according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, include: The loading control module is used to load the image to be printed in the current layer. It controls the printhead to move on the work platform and spray ink through the print control system to complete the printing of the current layer. The printing control module is used by the printing control system to send the printing end information of the current layer to the image monitoring system. The image monitoring system acquires and identifies the printed image of the current layer, and then sends the defect information of the printed image of the current layer back to the printing control system. If the current layer reports no defects, continue printing. The image detection module is used to control the print control system to move the printhead to the test page printing area to perform printhead status detection when the image monitoring system reports a defect in the current layer of printed image, and to receive printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system. The defect handling module is used to perform corresponding defect compensation printing of the printed image based on the defect information and printhead status information fed back by the image monitoring system; The logic control module is used to repeatedly execute the above printing logic until the entire printing task is completed.
4. The printing control system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The defect processing module includes a defect processing unit, which is used to compare and analyze defect information and nozzle status information. If the defect information indicates a large defect, the defect in the printed image is compensated by printing multiple back-and-forth printing operations.
5. The printing control system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The defect processing module also includes a defect matching analysis unit, which is used to match and analyze defect information and nozzle status information to accurately determine the compensation printing range and ensure that the range completely matches the defect range in the printed image.
6. A computer, characterized in that, include: A memory and a processor are communicatively connected, the memory storing computer instructions, and the processor executing the computer instructions to perform the printing control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 2.
7. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions for causing the computer to perform the printing control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 2.