Barcode Printer Automates Label Data Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for generating label data from printed labels require manual editing on personal computers and lack efficient automation for distinguishing between fixed and variable regions, making the process cumbersome and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

An image forming apparatus that acquires a document image, identifies mark regions containing variable objects, decides fixed regions, and generates label data based on these regions, allowing for easy generation and editing of label data without the need for a personal computer, using a barcode printer that can automatically reflect input information in the label format.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual editing on personal computers is used to generate label data, then label customization is possible, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of label data generationVSAvoidtime for label editing

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode printer automatically identifies mark regions and decides variable/fixed regions without requiring external PC editing tools. The system serves itself by performing region identification and label data generation internally, eliminating the need for manual PC-based label editing and significantly reducing time consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual editing process on personal computers with an automated image processing and region identification system integrated into the barcode printer. The controller automatically acquires images, identifies mark regions, and generates label data, substituting the manual PC-based workflow with an automated system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated region identification is implemented, then label data generation efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel data generation efficiencyVSAvoidcomplexity of region identification system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode printer is designed with multi-functionality, combining barcode printing capabilities with integrated image acquisition and region identification functions. The controller serves multiple purposes: it controls barcode printing, processes images, identifies mark regions, and generates label data, eliminating the need for separate dedicated region identification hardware and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the image acquisition unit, region identification function, and label data generation capabilities into a single integrated system within the barcode printer. By combining these functions that were previously separate (PC editing tools, image processors, and printers), the system achieves high productivity while managing device complexity through consolidation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20250010636A1Image forming apparatus and image forming method

Publication Date: 2025.01.09 TOSHIBA TEC KK

AI summary

An image forming apparatus includes a controller configured to (a) acquire an image of a document, (b) identify a mark region containing a predetermined mark in the acquired image of the document, (c) decide a variable region containing a variable object that is variable based on an input based on the identified mark region, (d) decide a fixed region indicating a format of the document and containing a fixed object that is not variable, and (e) generate document data based on the decided variable region and the decided fixed region.