Dynamic Density Correction for Inkjet Recording Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet recording apparatuses face issues with inconsistent image quality due to manufacturing errors and variations in recording head discharge characteristics and ink viscosity, leading to density differences in recorded images, which are not adequately addressed by existing color calibration techniques.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that includes an input unit for recording mode selection, a correction unit for pixel value processing, an acquisition unit for measuring density characteristics, and a retention unit for target density values, which adjusts correction values based on measured density characteristics to ensure accurate image recording across different recording modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional color calibration processing is applied to correct density differences, then color tone adjustment is achieved, but density variations in different recording modes (particularly in high gradation regions) are not adequately corrected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic correction by switching between different correction processing modes (first correction processing for standard mode, second correction processing for high-quality mode) based on the selected recording mode. This allows the correction algorithm to adapt its behavior to match the specific characteristics and requirements of each recording mode, thereby achieving reliable density correction across all modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the correction parameters based on the recording mode. In the first correction processing, correction values are applied to all gradation regions. In the second correction processing, correction values are specifically adjusted for high gradation regions (greater than or equal to a predetermined gradation) where density variations are most problematic. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction by tailoring the correction strength to the specific needs of each recording mode.
2Manufacturing precision
If correction values are applied to all gradation regions, then overall density correction is achieved, but unnecessary correction in high gradation regions may cause over-correction or loss of image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality correction by differentiating the correction approach for different gradation regions. In the second correction processing, correction values are applied selectively: for gradation values greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, specific correction values are used, while other gradation regions use different correction values. This localized correction strategy ensures that high gradation regions receive appropriate correction without over-correction, preserving image quality while achieving density uniformity.
3Reliability
If multiple correction processing methods are maintained for different recording modes, then accurate correction for each mode is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent manages system complexity through dynamic selection rather than simultaneous implementation of all correction methods. The control unit dynamically selects which correction processing method to apply based on the recording mode input, switching between first correction processing (applying correction to all gradations) and second correction processing (applying targeted correction to high gradation regions). This dynamic approach maintains multiple correction strategies without requiring all to be active simultaneously, thereby managing system complexity while preserving correction accuracy for each mode.
Data Source
AI summary
In an image processing apparatus, in a case where an input recording mode is a first recording mode and a density characteristic value for a patch pattern in an input gradation value greater than or equal to a predetermined gradation is higher than the target density value associated with an input gradation value, in correction processing, a correction value for an input gradation value greater than or equal to the predetermined gradation is not 0, in a case where the input recording mode is a second recording mode and a density characteristic value for a patch pattern in an input gradation value greater than or equal to the predetermined gradation is higher than the target density value associated with an input gradation value, in the correction processing, a correction value for an input gradation value greater than or equal to the predetermined gradation is 0.