Color Patch Layout for Flare Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The quality of printed images is compromised due to color drift over time in printing machines, and existing color validation processes are inaccurate due to flare effects from surrounding areas, which introduces inaccuracies in color measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine the optimal layout of color patches by comparing their properties with image portion properties, adjusting print size and position to minimize flare effects, thereby improving measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If color patches are printed on the printed sheet for color validation, then color measurement can be performed, but flare from surrounding areas introduces measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the color validation function from the main printed sheet by printing color patches on a separate transparency sheet. This separation removes the color patches from the harmful flare environment of the printed sheet while maintaining their utility for color measurement and validation.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparency sheet acts as an intermediary carrier for color patches. It provides a clean, flare-free background that allows accurate color measurement while still enabling the color validation process to be performed in conjunction with the printed sheet.
2Measurement precision
If color patches are printed separately from the image, then measurement accuracy improves, but paper waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the color validation function with the main printing process by using the same transparency sheet for both color patches and potential overlay printing. This combination eliminates separate validation sheets while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Loss of substance
If color patches are placed in trim areas, then paper waste is reduced, but layout complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary layout determination by analyzing the printed sheet layout before printing color patches on the transparency sheet. This advance planning identifies optimal trim area locations for color patches, reducing paper waste while managing layout complexity through systematic analysis.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the accuracy of color measurements and reduces flare-related inaccuracies, leading to improved print quality and reduced waste by strategically placing color patches in trim areas.
Implementation Method 1
light reflected from a subject color patch is picked up by a sensor to reveal the color property the color patch
Implementation Method 2
the sensor can also pick up light reflected from areas of the printed sheet that surround the sensor. The light reflected from surrounding areas, referred to as flare
Data Source
AI summary
A color test pattern comprising color patches can be printed together with an image (text and/or a pictures, for example) of a print job. After printing, reflections, known as flare, from the image may adversely affect measurements taken of the color patches. To help reduce the effects of flare, a determination is made prior to printing as to the layout of the color patches. The determination involves comparing the color properties of the color patches with those of the image.