Lamp box printing method and device, ink-jet printer and storage medium

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of ink-jet printing, and relates to a lamp box printing method and device, an ink-jet printer and a storage medium. By establishing an external light printing color curve and an internal light printing color curve and generating a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve, accurate color mapping and correction of target pattern data are realized. A first printing layer and a second printing layer are sequentially output in a double-image printing mode and accurately aligned, white colors on the bottom layer are mixed to provide an optical substrate for colors on the surface layer, the influence of color ink concentration fluctuation on the visual effect is reduced, and therefore bright and consistent colors are shown in the opening state and the closing state of a lamp box. According to the method, the image interlayer alignment precision is improved, the color consistency of internal and external light is ensured, the dependence on high-cost double-sided printing equipment is reduced, and the efficient, low-cost and stable internal and external light display effect is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of inkjet printing technology, specifically relating to a lightbox printing method, apparatus, inkjet printer, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of commercial and public spaces, UV light boxes are widely used in information display and advertising. Typical scenarios include background light boxes for brand mobile phone 4S stores, advertising light boxes on both sides of subway passages, airport advertising light boxes, large shopping mall signs, and indoor light boxes. These types of light boxes have high requirements for image color performance, clarity, and visual consistency.

[0003] In practical applications, traditional printing methods typically employ a color-white-color printing scheme, achieving internal and external light display by printing color, white, and color layers. However, certain limitations still exist in existing technologies.

[0004] In the process of developing this application, the inventors discovered that the prior art has at least the following problems: equipment cost and accuracy issues: color-white-color printing solutions usually rely on double-sided printing equipment to complete multi-layer printing, which has high equipment costs, and in actual operation, it is difficult to guarantee the alignment accuracy between image layers; color consistency issues: existing solutions cannot simultaneously take into account the color performance when the lightbox is on (internal light) and off (external light), resulting in significant differences in visual effects. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a lightbox printing method, apparatus, inkjet printer, and storage medium, which improves image layer alignment accuracy, reduces costs, and ensures color consistency between internal and external light.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, one technical solution adopted in this application is: providing a lightbox printing method, the method comprising: establishing a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and obtaining a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve; performing image processing on the target pattern data to be printed according to the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve, generating a first print file and a second print file; and controlling the printer printhead group to sequentially output a first print layer pattern and a second print layer pattern in a dual-image printing mode based on the first print file and the second print file; wherein, the first print layer pattern is a white and color mixed print layer pattern, and the second print layer pattern is a color overlay layer pattern, and is aligned with the first print layer pattern.

[0007] In some embodiments, establishing a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and obtaining a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve, includes: generating a first color target printing file based on the external light printing color curve; printing a first color target image on a material to be printed based on the first color target printing file, and obtaining a first color compensation curve; establishing an internal light printing color curve based on the external light printing color curve, and generating a second color target printing file; printing a second color target image on a material to be printed based on the second color target printing file, and obtaining optical transmission data; adjusting the internal light printing color curve according to the optical transmission data to generate a corrected second color curve; and obtaining the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve based on the external light printing color curve and the second color curve, respectively.

[0008] In some embodiments, image processing is performed on the target pattern data to be printed based on the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve, and the second color compensation curve to generate a first print file and a second print file, including: using the external light printing color curve and the first color compensation curve to perform color mapping and color correction on the target pattern data to be printed to generate a first print file for a first print layer; and using the internal light printing color curve and the second color compensation curve to perform color mapping and color correction on the target pattern data to be printed to generate a second print file for a second print layer.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method further includes: during the dual-image printing process, controlling the output amount of white ink based on a preset control strategy; wherein the preset control strategy includes at least one of adjusting the output amount of white ink, adjusting the dot pattern of white ink, and setting the white ink multiplier.

[0010] In some embodiments, the material to be printed includes a light-transmitting internal light material or a transparent material.

[0011] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: providing a lightbox printing device, the device comprising: a color compensation curve acquisition module, which is used to establish a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and acquire a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve; a print file acquisition module, which is used to perform image processing on the target pattern data to be printed according to the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve, to generate a first print file and a second print file; and a print pattern output module, which is used to control the printer nozzle group to sequentially output a first print layer pattern and a second print layer pattern in a dual-image printing mode based on the first print file and the second print file; wherein, the first print layer pattern is a white and color mixed print layer pattern, and the second print layer pattern is a color overlay layer pattern, and is aligned with the first print layer pattern.

[0012] In some embodiments, the color compensation curve acquisition module is specifically used for: generating a first color target printing file based on the external light printing color curve; printing a first color target image on the material to be printed based on the first color target printing file, and acquiring a first color compensation curve; establishing an internal light printing color curve based on the external light printing color curve, and generating a second color target printing file; printing a second color target image on the material to be printed based on the second color target printing file, and acquiring optical transmission data; adjusting the internal light printing color curve according to the optical transmission data to generate a corrected second color curve; and acquiring the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve based on the external light printing color curve and the second color curve, respectively.

[0013] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in the embodiments of this application is: to provide an inkjet printer, including: at least one processor; and a memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein the memory stores instructions that can be executed by the at least one processor, and the instructions are executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the above-mentioned method.

[0014] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in the embodiments of this application is: to provide a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium that stores computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by an inkjet printer, cause the inkjet printer to perform the above-mentioned method.

[0015] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in the embodiments of this application is: to provide a computer program product, the computer program product including a computer program stored on a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, the computer program including program instructions, which, when executed by an inkjet printer, cause the inkjet printer to perform the above-mentioned method.

[0016] Unlike related technologies, this application provides a lightbox printing method, apparatus, inkjet printer, and storage medium. By establishing external light printing color curves and internal light printing color curves, and generating a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve based on these curves, precise color mapping and correction of the target pattern data to be printed is achieved, ensuring color coordination between different printing layers. A dual-image printing mode is used to sequentially output the first printing layer (white-color mixed printing layer) and the second printing layer (color overlay layer). Through precise alignment, the underlying white-color mixed effect provides an optical substrate for the surface color, reducing the impact of color ink concentration fluctuations on the visual effect. This allows for vibrant and consistent colors to be displayed whether the lightbox is on (internal light) or off (external light). This method not only improves the alignment accuracy between image layers, ensuring print quality and visual consistency, but also reduces reliance on high-cost duplex printing equipment, achieving efficient, low-cost, and stable internal and external light display effects. This effectively solves the problems of high equipment cost, inaccurate image alignment, and poor color consistency in existing technologies. Attached Figure Description

[0017] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an inkjet printer that performs the lightbox printing method according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the controller provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the nozzle arrangement pattern provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a lightbox printing method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a lightbox printing device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and thoroughly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0020] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the various features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, all of which are within the protection scope of this application. Furthermore, although functional modules are divided in the device schematic diagram and a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be performed in a different order than the module division in the device schematic diagram or the order in the flowchart.

[0021] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and are not limited in number; for example, a first object can be one or more.

[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0023] With the rapid development of commercial and public spaces, UV light boxes, as an important medium for information display and advertising, have been widely used in domestic and international markets. Typical applications include background light boxes for mid-to-high-end brand mobile phone 4S stores, advertising light boxes along subway passages, advertising light boxes inside airports, large shopping mall signs, and indoor light boxes. These types of light boxes have high requirements for image color performance, clarity, and visual effects, while also requiring color consistency under different lighting conditions to enhance the overall display effect.

[0024] In practical applications, traditional printing methods often employ a color-white-color printing scheme, where a printer directly prints color-white-color layers to achieve internal and external light display. However, this scheme still has certain limitations. In actual use, customer costs are relatively high, and the display effect of the lightbox is limited.

[0025] However, existing technologies have at least the following problems: equipment cost and accuracy issues: existing color-white-color printing solutions usually rely on double-sided printing equipment to complete multi-layer printing, resulting in high equipment investment costs. At the same time, it is difficult to guarantee the alignment accuracy between image layers during the printing process; color consistency issues: existing solutions cannot maintain consistent display colors under both internal light (lightbox on) and external light (lightbox off) conditions, which can easily lead to color deviations and affect the visual experience; material applicability issues: existing printing materials are mostly limited to semi-transparent internal light materials, which restricts the application flexibility of the lightbox in different materials and scenarios.

[0026] To address the aforementioned issues, this application proposes a lightbox printing method. The basic idea includes: analyzing the internal and external light display characteristics of the lightbox to achieve color coordination and control across layers in a multi-layer printing scheme, thereby improving color consistency under different lighting conditions; independently managing and controlling the colors of different printing layers, ensuring the first printing layer can achieve visual effects under both translucent and reflected light, while the second printing layer maintains pattern clarity and color vibrancy after coverage; through material selection and inter-layer color adjustment during the printing process, the method is applicable to both translucent internal light materials and transparent materials, thus expanding the range of applicable scenarios; the overall solution maintains printing quality while reducing reliance on high-cost double-sided printing equipment, achieving lower operating costs and high stability.

[0027] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an inkjet printer that performs the lightbox printing method according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the inkjet printer 100 includes: a controller 110, a color management device 120, and a printhead assembly 130 for printing different colored inks. Those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 1 The structure shown does not constitute a limitation on the inkjet printer. The inkjet printer 100 may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine or separate certain components, or change the layout of the components.

[0028] The controller 110 controls the coordinated operation of the printhead assembly 130 and the color management device 120. Specifically, the controller 110 receives target pattern data and color management information, and generates printing instructions for the first and second printing layers based on preset external light printing color curves, internal light printing color curves, and color compensation curves. Simultaneously, it controls the printhead assembly to achieve precise alignment, ink volume, and ink injection sequence in dual-image printing mode. The controller 110 can also coordinate the moving mechanisms during the printing process to achieve scanning or single-pass printing modes.

[0029] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the controller 110 provided in an embodiment of this application. The controller 110 includes: at least one processor 11; and a memory 12 communicatively connected to the at least one processor 11. Figure 2 Taking a processor 11 as an example, the memory 12 stores instructions executable by at least one processor 11. These instructions, when executed by the at least one processor 11, enable the at least one processor 11 to perform the lightbox printing method described in the above embodiment. The processor 11 and the memory 12 can be connected via a bus or other means. Figure 2 Taking the example of a connection between China and Israel via a bus.

[0030] The memory 12, as a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-volatile software programs, non-volatile computer-executable programs, and modules, such as the program instructions / modules corresponding to the lightbox printing method in the embodiments of this application. The processor 11 executes various functional applications and data processing of the server by running the non-volatile software programs, instructions, and modules stored in the memory 12, thereby implementing the lightbox printing method of the above embodiments.

[0031] The memory 12 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the computing device. Furthermore, the memory 12 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-volatile solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, the memory 12 may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the processor 11, and these remote memories may be connected to the computing device via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, corporate intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0032] One or more modules are stored in memory 12 and, when executed by one or more processors 11, perform the lightbox printing method of the above embodiment.

[0033] The color management device 120 can be used to implement interlayer color management and color compensation in printing. For example, it may include a color measurement device with transmission scanning function to acquire color characteristics under external and internal light and generate corresponding color compensation curves.

[0034] The printhead assembly 130 is used to print the target pattern and may include multiple printhead units installed in a specific arrangement pattern, such as single-row, multi-row, or multi-layer arrangement. The lightbox printing method of this application is applicable to inkjet printers in color-white (dual-image) printing mode, and its printhead assembly can achieve a first layer of white-color mixed output and a second layer of color overlay printing. Specifically, the printhead assembly 130 may include printheads for printing C (color) and W (white), and in dual-image printing mode, various printing schemes can be achieved through different arrangements and combinations, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the nozzle arrangement can be as follows: First arrangement: the first layer is CW, the second layer is C, where the C in the second layer is aligned with the C in the first layer; Second arrangement: the first layer is W1, C, W2, the second layer is C, where the C in the second layer is aligned with the C in the first layer; Third arrangement: the first layer is C1, W, C2, the second layer is C1 and C2, where C1 and C2 are aligned with C1 and C2 in the first layer, respectively; Fourth arrangement: the first layer is C1, W1, W2, C2, the second layer is C1 and C2, where C1 and C2 are aligned with C1 and C2 in the first layer, respectively.

[0035] Each printhead in the printhead assembly may include multiple nozzles for ejecting ink droplets to form a pattern. The controller 110 controls the ink ejection volume of each printhead to achieve a first printed layer white-color mixed output and a second printed layer color overlay output, ensuring precise alignment of the two layers. The printhead assembly may also include printheads for other spot color inks (such as gold, silver, or royal blue) to meet different pattern requirements.

[0036] In this embodiment, the printing software can independently control the white ink and colored ink based on the dual-image function, adjusting the output amount, dot pattern, or multiplier of the white ink to achieve a synergistic effect of the first layer of white-color mixed printing and the second layer of color coverage. With the lightbox on (internal light) or off (external light) state, color compensation control provided by the color management device can ensure the consistency of the printed pattern's color. Furthermore, this application is applicable to translucent internal light materials and can be extended to transparent material printing applications.

[0037] The implementation process of the lightbox printing method proposed in this application will be described in detail below through specific embodiments.

[0038] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a lightbox printing method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method is applied to the controller 110 of the inkjet printer 100 described above. Figure 4 As shown, the method includes steps S11-S13: S11: Establish the corresponding internal light printing color curve based on the preset external light printing color curve, and obtain the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve.

[0039] The process of establishing a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and obtaining a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve, includes: generating a first color target printing file based on the external light printing color curve; printing a first color target image on the material to be printed based on the first color target printing file, and obtaining the first color compensation curve; establishing an internal light printing color curve based on the external light printing color curve, and generating a second color target printing file; printing a second color target image on the material to be printed based on the second color target printing file, and obtaining optical transmission data; adjusting the internal light printing color curve according to the optical transmission data to generate a corrected second color curve; and obtaining the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve based on the external light printing color curve and the second color curve, respectively.

[0040] First, a first color target print file is generated based on a preset external light printing color curve. It can be understood that the external light printing color curve is a standardized color response curve corresponding to the printing of a colored pattern under external lighting conditions, used to define the output amount and color rendering relationship of each colored ink and white ink on the printing medium. The controller 110 sends the first color target print file to the printhead assembly 130, printing the first color target image on the material to be printed. Subsequently, the color management device 120 scans and measures the first color target image to obtain the actual color value presented on the printing medium, and generates a first color compensation curve based on the measurement results. The first color compensation curve is used to correct color deviations caused by printing materials, ink characteristics, or printhead nonlinear response during external light printing, ensuring color accuracy under external light printing.

[0041] Subsequently, the controller 110 establishes an internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve. It can be understood that the internal light printing color curve is a standard color response curve for printing a colored pattern under internal light conditions (i.e., when the backlight of the lightbox is on). A second color target printing file is generated based on this internal light printing color curve, and the second color target image is printed on the material to be printed. The optical transmission data of the second color target image is acquired by the color management device 120 to obtain the color response characteristics of the material under transmitted light conditions. Based on the acquired optical transmission data, the controller 110 adjusts the internal light printing color curve to generate a corrected second color curve, thereby correcting color deviations caused by material translucency, ink layer superposition effects, and white ink mixed color output under internal light printing.

[0042] Finally, the controller 110 compares and processes the external light printing color curve and the corrected second color curve to obtain the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve respectively. The first color compensation curve is mainly used to control the ink volume and output mode of the first printing layer (white-color mixed printing layer) to ensure color accuracy under external light conditions; the second color compensation curve is mainly used to control the output characteristics of the second printing layer (color overlay layer) so that when it is superimposed with the underlying white-color mixed layer under internal light conditions, it achieves the expected color brightness, saturation and visual consistency.

[0043] In this embodiment, the inkjet printer 100 can accurately acquire color compensation curves applicable to both the external light printing layer and the internal light printing layer, ensuring accurate and consistent colors in the white-color mixed output of the first printing layer and the color overlay output of the second printing layer under different lighting conditions. Under external light conditions, the first color compensation curve corrects the output amount of color ink and white ink, ensuring accurate color performance of the underlying white-color mixed printing layer and providing a reliable color reference for the color overlay of the second printing layer. Under internal light conditions, the second color compensation curve compensates for the material and ink layer superposition effect under transmitted light by correcting the internal light printing color curve, ensuring that the second printing layer and the underlying white-color mixed layer, after accurate superposition, maintain the expected brightness, saturation, and color consistency when the internal light of the lightbox is on. Overall, this not only solves the problem of large color deviation and color inconsistency under internal and external light conditions in traditional color-white-color printing methods, but also provides a reliable color data foundation for subsequent dual-image printing, thereby significantly improving the visual performance, color stability, and printing accuracy of the printed pattern in the lightbox, ensuring visual consistency of the printed pattern under both light-on and light-off conditions, and reducing the risk of color difference caused by material characteristics or ink nonlinearity.

[0044] S12: Based on the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve, and the second color compensation curve, perform image processing on the target pattern data to be printed to generate a first print file and a second print file.

[0045] Specifically, based on the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve, and the second color compensation curve, image processing is performed on the target pattern data to be printed to generate a first print file and a second print file. This includes: using the external light printing color curve and the first color compensation curve to perform color mapping and color correction on the target pattern data to be printed, generating a first print file for the first printing layer; and using the internal light printing color curve and the second color compensation curve to perform color mapping and color correction on the target pattern data to be printed, generating a second print file for the second printing layer.

[0046] The controller 110 uses the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, and the corresponding first color compensation curve and second color compensation curve obtained in step S11 to perform systematic image processing on the target pattern data to be printed, so as to generate print files corresponding to the first printing layer and the second printing layer, respectively. Here, "target pattern data" refers to the digital information of the image to be printed, which is usually represented in the form of a pixel matrix in RGB, CMYK or other color spaces, recording the color and brightness information that each pixel should present on the printing medium.

[0047] First, the controller 110 calls the external light printing color curve and the first color compensation curve to perform color mapping processing on the target pattern data. "Color mapping" involves converting the color value of each pixel in the original image data into ink values ​​suitable for printing on the first printing layer (i.e., the white-color mixing layer), based on the printer ink characteristics, printhead output characteristics, and visual presentation requirements under external light conditions. This step also incorporates correction using the first color compensation curve to compensate for color deviations caused by non-linear ink jetting, differences in ink absorption by the printing medium, and the mixing of white and colored inks, thereby generating the first print file. This print file includes the printing instructions for the colored inks and the output volume, dot type, and arrangement of the white ink, ensuring a uniform and controllable white-color mixing effect in actual printing.

[0048] Subsequently, the controller 110 uses the internal light printing color curve and the second color compensation curve to perform a second color mapping and correction process on the same target pattern data. Here, the internal light printing color curve corresponds to the optical characteristics of the lightbox when the lights are on, and the second color compensation curve is used to adjust the light transmission, light blocking, and color performance after superimposition with the underlying white-color mixing layer in the surface color printing. The controller 110 converts the target pattern data into a second print file through pixel-level calculations, ensuring that the second print layer (color overlay layer), after being superimposed with the underlying white-color mixing layer, presents a stable and consistent visual color effect under both on and off lighting conditions.

[0049] It should be noted that the controller 110 also considers the printhead arrangement, nozzle accuracy, droplet size, and dot pitch to ensure pixel-level alignment accuracy between the first and second printed documents. The dual-layer printed documents generated in this way enable the inkjet printer to achieve high-precision printing, uniform color, and visual color consistency when executing dual-image printing mode, thereby ensuring stable display of the lightbox pattern under different lighting conditions.

[0050] In this embodiment, by processing the target pattern data to be printed based on the external light printing color curve and the first color compensation curve, and by processing based on the internal light printing color curve and the second color compensation curve, print files for the first and second printing layers are generated, thereby achieving precise control of dual-layer printing. The characteristics of this processing method are: the white-color mixing output of the first printing layer can adjust the color density and provide visual contrast for the surface color, making the color superposition of the bottom and surface layers more balanced under different lighting conditions; after color compensation, the color overlay output of the second printing layer can achieve pixel-level alignment and color coordination with the bottom layer, effectively reducing color difference between light-on (internal light) and light-off (external light) conditions. Through the image processing method in S12, the controller can ensure that the print file accurately reflects the expected color in actual inkjet printing, optimizing brightness, saturation, and color consistency, so that the final printed pattern can present a stable, vibrant, and consistent visual effect under both light-on and light-off conditions, while improving the controllability and repeatability of the printing process, thereby significantly improving the visual quality and application reliability of the lightbox pattern.

[0051] S13: Based on the first print file and the second print file, control the printer nozzle group to output the first print layer pattern and the second print layer pattern in a dual-image printing mode in sequence; wherein, the first print layer pattern is a white and color mixed print layer pattern, and the second print layer pattern is a color overlay layer pattern, and is aligned with the first print layer pattern.

[0052] Based on the first and second print files generated in step S12, controller 110 precisely controls the printer's printhead assembly, causing it to sequentially print the first and second print layers in a dual-image printing mode. The first print layer is a white-color mixed print layer. The pattern data of this layer includes the superimposed output of underlying color information and white ink information. By controlling the printhead to spray white and colored inks respectively, the ink droplets achieve precise mixing on the printing medium, forming a visually contrasting underlying pattern. At this time, the printer printhead adjusts the spray volume, dot pattern, and spray sequence according to the instructions in the print file to ensure uniform ink droplet distribution, color density meeting preset requirements, and continuous, stable pattern output.

[0053] After the first printing layer is completed, the controller directs the printhead assembly to print the second printing layer, the color overlay layer. This layer's pattern data contains only surface color information. During printing, the printhead assembly uses a positioning and alignment mechanism to ensure that each pixel of the second printing layer is precisely aligned with its corresponding position in the first printing layer, achieving pixel-level alignment between the bottom and top layers. In this way, the color overlay of the second printing layer can synergize with the white color mixing effect of the bottom layer, maintaining visual color consistency in the overall pattern under both transmitted light (transmitted light conditions) and reflected light (reflected light conditions).

[0054] In addition, the printhead assembly can dynamically adjust the ink jetting sequence, jetting volume, and dot pattern combination according to the fine instructions in the print file during the printing process, ensuring printing accuracy and interlayer ink compatibility, thereby preventing uneven ink mixing or color deviation.

[0055] Step S13 ensures that the double-layer pattern can completely reproduce the image information after color management and color compensation processing during the physical printing process, achieving high-precision, controllable, and stable lightbox printing effect, and providing the final product with a high-quality display effect that is visually consistent under various lighting conditions.

[0056] In some embodiments, the method further includes: during the dual-image printing process, controlling the output amount of white ink based on a preset control strategy; wherein the preset control strategy includes at least one of adjusting the output amount of white ink, adjusting the dot pattern of white ink, and setting the white ink multiplier.

[0057] In the dual-image printing process, to ensure stable and uniform color overlay between the first printing layer (white-color mixing layer) and the second printing layer (color overlay layer), and to achieve visual consistency under both internal and external lighting conditions, this method introduces fine control of white ink output in the printing control stage. The specific implementation process is as follows: First, the controller 110 receives the first print file generated in step S12, which contains color data and white ink data for the first print layer. The white ink data corresponds to the position and concentration of white ink to be sprayed on the printing medium. Its function is not only to provide a background and reduce the concentration of color ink, but also to enhance the color display effect under transmitted light. The controller adjusts the white ink output in real time according to a preset control strategy to meet the requirements of printing accuracy and color uniformity.

[0058] The preset control strategy includes three main aspects: (1) Adjusting the white ink output: The controller 110 dynamically adjusts the volume of white ink ejected by the printhead according to the color requirements of the white ink printing area and the preset color compensation curve. Specifically, the drive pulse width and frequency of the printhead can be controlled to change the volume and number of each ink droplet, so as to ensure that the thickness and concentration of the white ink layer in different areas meet the design requirements. For example, the white ink output can be appropriately reduced in the bright areas of the pattern to avoid excessive color coverage; the white ink output can be increased in the dark areas or areas that need to enhance the light transmission effect to provide a uniform substrate. (2) Adjusting the white ink dot pattern: The dot pattern refers to the shape, arrangement and size distribution of ink droplets on the printing medium. The controller 110 selects different dot pattern modes, such as large dots, medium dots or small dots, and variable dot combination strategies, according to the local details and overall visual effect of the pattern. By adjusting the dot pattern, the controller can optimize the smoothness and color mixing effect of the white ink layer and avoid white ink accumulation, graininess or uneven color. (3) Setting the white ink multiplier: The multiplier refers to the number of times white ink is repeatedly sprayed at the same location, used to increase the thickness of the white ink layer or adjust the color concentration. The controller 110 can set the white ink multiplier for specific areas according to the color compensation curve and the requirements of the target pattern. For example, for areas with high light transmittance requirements or those that need to enhance the background color contrast, a higher multiplier can be set to increase the physical thickness of the white ink layer, thereby maintaining color consistency under internal light transmission conditions; while in general areas, a single spray can be maintained to ensure printing efficiency and ink conservation.

[0059] In actual operation, the controller 110 combines the printhead distribution and jetting capability of the inkjet printer to comprehensively calculate the above three strategies and generate specific printhead drive commands, achieving precise control over the jetting volume, position, dot shape, and multiplication factor of each ink droplet. Simultaneously, the controller can combine sensor feedback or measurement data from the color correction device to perform closed-loop adjustments to the white ink output, ensuring stability and repeatability during the printing process.

[0060] In this embodiment, by precisely controlling the output amount, dot shape, and multiplication factor of white ink during the dual-image printing process, the white-color mixing layer of the first printing layer and the color overlay layer of the second printing layer can achieve highly accurate superposition and alignment, thereby maintaining the color consistency of the target pattern under different lighting conditions. Through color compensation based on the external light printing color curve and the internal light printing color curve, and by performing color mapping and correction on the first and second layer patterns respectively, this embodiment can effectively reduce color difference problems under internal and external light conditions, ensuring that the printed pattern has a uniform and vibrant visual effect on translucent internal light materials or transparent materials. Simultaneously, the implementation of independent white ink control optimizes the thickness, concentration, and distribution of the white ink layer in local areas, thereby enhancing the contrast effect of the color layer and offsetting color deviations under the effect of internal light transmission. Overall, in high-precision dual-image printing mode, the target pattern can present a consistent, full, and vibrant color effect in both light-on and light-off states, improving the visual expressiveness of lightbox printing while balancing printing efficiency and ink economy. It is suitable for high-quality pattern output in mid-to-high-end commercial venues and various advertising lightboxes.

[0061] In some embodiments, the material to be printed includes a light-transmitting internal light material or a transparent material.

[0062] Among them, the so-called "translucent internal light material" refers to a type of material that allows light to be partially transmitted and achieves clear visibility of the pattern when backlit by refraction or scattering within the material. For example, polymer films or composite boards are commonly used for the back panels of light boxes. "Transparent material" refers to a substrate that hardly blocks the transmission of visible light, such as transparent acrylic sheets or glass materials, whose surfaces can be directly printed with ink.

[0063] In practice, when this method is applied to translucent internal light-transmitting materials, the white ink in the first white-color mixing layer acts as an optical substrate, highlighting the colors of the second color overlay layer. This results in a rich and uniform color pattern when backlit. Simultaneously, the optical properties of the translucent material help superimpose the underlying color with the surface color through the white ink, offsetting the brightness and color deviation caused by the internal light's external transmission. When applied to transparent materials, although the material itself lacks light-diffusing properties, a similar visual effect can still be achieved by controlling the white ink output, dot shape, and multiplier, as well as precisely adjusting the color compensation curve. This ensures that the target pattern maintains color consistency and vibrancy both when viewed from the front and when backlit. Therefore, this method is applicable to a wider range of materials, expanding printing application scenarios and ensuring high-quality dual-image printing results on materials with varying optical properties.

[0064] It should be noted that the lightbox printing method proposed in this application mainly revolves around achieving color consistency in the internal and external light display of the lightbox through double-layer printing (a white-color mixed layer and a color overlay layer). Its core idea lies in achieving consistent visual effects when the light is on and off by combining the colors of the bottom and top layers, precise alignment, and color management. The specific principle is as follows: First, the bottom layer (first layer) uses a white-color mixed printing mode. During the printing process, white ink and color ink are output simultaneously. The addition of white reduces the color concentration of the color ink itself and provides a certain optical contrast, making the subsequent printed surface color more vibrant and stable visually. This white-color mixed output not only creates a bottom layer pattern with a certain white background effect, but also, when the lightbox is on (backlit), the color components of the bottom layer can overlap with the surface layer. Thus, under the effect of internal light transmission, the surface color is prevented from appearing too bright or too pale, achieving a balance of visual colors.

[0065] Secondly, the surface layer (second layer) is a colored overlay layer. During printing, its pattern is precisely aligned with the underlying pattern (i.e., each colored dot corresponds precisely to a white-colored mixing dot on the underlying layer), ensuring the controllability and consistency of the color overlay effect. When the lights are on or off, the underlying white-colored mixing layer optically adjusts the surface color, ensuring that the brightness and color of the surface color remain consistent under different lighting conditions.

[0066] To achieve the above effects, this application introduces a color management mechanism. Specifically, a corresponding internal light printing color curve is established based on a preset external light printing color curve, and a color compensation curve is generated to correct the color output of the bottom and surface layers respectively. The process of obtaining the color compensation curve includes external light target linearization processing, internal light target printing, and transmission scanning measurement. The internal light printing color curve is adjusted according to the optical transmission data, thereby forming two different color compensation curves for the bottom and surface layers. Through the color management device 120 (with built-in color management software (RIP software)), when generating the first and second print files, the respective color compensation curves are applied to the image data to achieve color mapping and correction.

[0067] During the printing execution phase, a dual-image (color-white) printing mode is used to control the printhead assembly to sequentially output a base layer of mixed white and color patterns and a surface layer of color overlay patterns. The printheads can be arranged in single or multiple rows, with common patterns including CW / C, W1-C-W2 / C, and C1WC2 / C1-C2 combinations, where C represents the color printhead, W represents the white printhead, and the numbers indicate the correspondence between the base and surface layers. During printing, the white ink output volume, dot pattern, and multiplier can be independently adjusted according to preset control strategies, thereby further optimizing the brightness and color overlay effect between the base and surface layers.

[0068] Furthermore, the lightbox printing method provided in this application is applicable to translucent internal light materials as printing media, and can also be extended to transparent materials. On translucent internal light materials, the underlying white-color mixed pattern serves as an optical substrate, and its superposition with the surface color can effectively offset the brightness and color deviation caused by the outward transmission of internal light; on transparent materials, similar consistency of internal and external light colors can also be achieved by adjusting the white ink output and controlling the color compensation curve.

[0069] Understandably, through the synergistic effects of bottom-layer white-color mixed output, surface color coverage, precise alignment, dual-color compensation curve management, and adjustable white ink output, the lightbox can maintain a high-fidelity, vivid, and consistent display effect under both on-light and off-light conditions, while solving the problem of excessive color difference between internal and external light in the traditional color-white-color mode.

[0070] This application provides a lightbox printing method that achieves color consistency and visual vibrancy under both on-light (internal light) and off-light (external light) illumination conditions through a dual-layer superposition mode of bottom-layer white-color mixed printing and top-layer color overlay printing. The white-color mixed layer reduces the color concentration of the colored inks and provides an optical substrate, ensuring accurate color development and stable brightness of the surface color during printing and use. The precisely aligned dual-image printing mode ensures complete overlap between the surface color overlay and the bottom white-color mixed layer, achieving controllable and consistent color superposition. Simultaneously, by combining two different color compensation curves generated by color management software, independent color mapping and correction are performed on the bottom and surface patterns, effectively offsetting color deviations under different illumination conditions. The method allows for flexible adjustment of the white ink output volume, dot shape, and multiplier, further optimizing brightness and color balance, and is applicable to translucent internal light materials or transparent materials, thus expanding its application range. Overall, this application can significantly improve the color stability, visual consistency and display effect of lightbox printing, while reducing the color difference problem of traditional color-white-color printing solutions under internal and external light display, achieving high-quality and high-reliability lightbox pattern output, and meeting the visual requirements under different lighting conditions.

[0071] Based on the lightbox printing method provided in the above embodiments, this application further provides a lightbox printing apparatus. Please refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the lightbox printing device. (For example...) Figure 5 As shown, the lightbox printing device 200 includes: a color compensation curve acquisition module 210, a print file acquisition module 220, and a print pattern output module 230.

[0072] The color compensation curve acquisition module 210 is used to establish a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and to acquire a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve. The print file acquisition module 220 is used to perform image processing on the target pattern data to be printed according to the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve, and the second color compensation curve, to generate a first print file and a second print file. The print pattern output module 230 is used to control the printer nozzle group to output a first print layer pattern and a second print layer pattern in a dual-image printing mode based on the first print file and the second print file. The first print layer pattern is a white and color mixed print layer pattern, and the second print layer pattern is a color overlay layer pattern, which is aligned with the first print layer pattern.

[0073] In some embodiments, the color compensation curve acquisition module is specifically used for: generating a first color target printing file based on the external light printing color curve; printing a first color target image on the material to be printed based on the first color target printing file, and acquiring a first color compensation curve; establishing an internal light printing color curve based on the external light printing color curve, and generating a second color target printing file; printing a second color target image on the material to be printed based on the second color target printing file, and acquiring optical transmission data; adjusting the internal light printing color curve according to the optical transmission data to generate a corrected second color curve; and acquiring the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve based on the external light printing color curve and the second color curve, respectively.

[0074] It should be noted that the above-described lightbox printing device can execute the lightbox printing method provided in the embodiments of this application, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects of the method. Technical details not described in detail in the lightbox printing device embodiments can be found in the lightbox printing method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0075] This application provides a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions. These instructions are executed by one or more processors to enable at least one processor to perform the lightbox printing method described above. For example, the non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may be a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), magnetic tape, a floppy disk, or an optical data storage device, etc.

[0076] This application provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions, which, when executed by an inkjet printer, enable the inkjet printer to perform the lightbox printing method in any of the above method embodiments.

[0077] It should be noted that the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0078] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk) and includes several instructions to cause a terminal (which may be a mobile phone, computer, server, air conditioner, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of this application.

[0079] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them; under the concept of this application, the technical features of the above embodiments or different embodiments can also be combined, the steps can be implemented in any order, and there are many other variations of different aspects of this application as described above, which are not provided in detail for the sake of brevity; although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A method of light box printing, characterized by, The method comprises: establishing a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and obtaining a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve; performing image processing on target pattern data to be printed according to the external light printing color curve, the internal light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve, and generating a first printing file and a second printing file; controlling a printer head group to output a first printing layer pattern and a second printing layer pattern in turn in a double-image printing mode based on the first printing file and the second printing file; wherein the first printing layer pattern is a white color mixed printing layer pattern, and the second printing layer pattern is a color covering layer pattern and is registered with the first printing layer pattern.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: generating a first color target printing file based on the external light printing color curve; printing a first color target image on a material to be printed based on the first color target printing file, and obtaining a first color compensation curve; establishing the internal light printing color curve based on the external light printing color curve, and generating a second color target printing file; printing a second color target image on the material to be printed based on the second color target printing file, and obtaining optical transmission data; adjusting the internal light printing color curve according to the optical transmission data, and generating a corrected second color curve; obtaining the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve based on the external light printing color curve and the second color curve.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: performing color mapping and color correction on the target pattern data to be printed using the external light printing color curve and the first color compensation curve, and generating the first printing file for a first printing layer; performing color mapping and color correction on the target pattern data to be printed using the internal light printing color curve and the second color compensation curve, and generating the second printing file for a second printing layer.

4. The method of printing a light box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The method further comprises: controlling the output amount of white ink based on a preset control strategy during the double-image printing process; wherein the preset control strategy comprises at least one of adjusting the output amount of white ink, adjusting the white ink dot type, and setting the white ink multiple.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein, The material to be printed comprises a light-transmitting internal light material or a transparent material.

6. A light box printing device characterized by, The device comprises: a color compensation curve obtaining module configured to establish a corresponding internal light printing color curve based on a preset external light printing color curve, and obtain a first color compensation curve and a second color compensation curve; The printing file acquisition module is configured to perform image processing on target pattern data to be printed according to the outer-light printing color curve, the inner-light printing color curve, the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve, and generate a first printing file and a second printing file. The printing pattern output module is configured to control a printhead group of a printer to sequentially output a first printing layer pattern and a second printing layer pattern in a double-image printing mode based on the first printing file and the second printing file, wherein the first printing layer pattern is a white-color mixed printing layer pattern, and the second printing layer pattern is a color covering layer pattern and is registered with the first printing layer pattern.

7. The light box printing device of claim 6, wherein, The color compensation curve acquisition module is specifically configured to: generate a first color target printing file based on the outer-light printing color curve; print a first color target image on a material to be printed based on the first color target printing file, and acquire a first color compensation curve; establish the inner-light printing color curve based on the outer-light printing color curve, and generate a second color target printing file; print a second color target image on the material to be printed based on the second color target printing file, and acquire optical transmission data; adjust the inner-light printing color curve based on the optical transmission data, and generate a corrected second color curve; acquire the first color compensation curve and the second color compensation curve based on the outer-light printing color curve and the second color curve, respectively.

8. An inkjet printer characterized by comprising: The method comprises: at least one processor; and a memory connected in communication with the at least one processor; wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the at least one processor, and the instructions are executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the method of any one of claims 1-5.

9. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium, comprising: The non-volatile computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions, and when the computer-executable instructions are executed by the inkjet printer, the inkjet printer performs the method of any one of claims 1-5.

10. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product comprises a computer program stored on a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and the computer program comprises program instructions, and when the program instructions are executed by the inkjet printer, the inkjet printer performs the method of any one of claims 1-5.

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