Color Conversion Unit for Fluorescent Ink Dot Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of fluorescent color materials in image processing systems poses challenges, particularly in constructing color conversion algorithms due to the lack of colorimetric standards and defined color values, making it difficult to create image data that effectively utilizes these colors.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that includes an acquisition unit for acquiring first image data and a color conversion unit that converts the image data into five-color image data by distributing the dot area ratio of a target process color into a distributed dot area ratio of a fluorescent color and the target process color, facilitating the creation of image data when using a fluorescent color different from process colors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If fluorescent color materials are used to expand color reproduction range and improve hue, then color brightness and saturation are improved, but the lack of colorimetric standards and defined color values makes it difficult to construct color conversion algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion process where fluorescent color values are first converted to process color values (CMYK), which then serve as intermediaries for further conversion to device-specific color values. This mediator approach allows the system to handle fluorescent colors without requiring direct colorimetric standards for the fluorescent materials themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting whether the input image contains fluorescent color information and automatically executing the appropriate conversion process. The image processing apparatus autonomously determines the need for fluorescent color conversion and applies the appropriate algorithm without requiring manual intervention or complex external colorimetric standards.
2Illumination intensity
If fluorescent magenta ink is used instead of process color magenta in offset printing, then color vividness is improved, but a fifth colorplate is required in addition to the four process color plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fluorescent color information from the standard CMYK process by introducing a separate fluorescent color channel (CMYKNM). This segmentation allows the fluorescent component to be handled independently while still integrating with the existing four-color process, enabling the use of fluorescent materials without completely replacing the standard printing workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing apparatus provides multi-functionality by supporting both standard CMYK printing and fluorescent color printing through a unified conversion system. The same apparatus can handle regular process colors and fluorescent colors by automatically detecting the input type and applying the appropriate conversion algorithm, making the system universal for both printing modes.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual creation of fluorescent color plates is performed, then color accuracy can be controlled, but it requires specialized skill and creates a heavy burden on designers
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting fluorescent color information in the input image and autonomously executing the conversion to process color values. This automated process eliminates the need for designers to manually create fluorescent color plates or possess specialized knowledge of fluorescent colorimetry, while still maintaining color accuracy through the systematic conversion algorithm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of creating fluorescent color plates with an automated computational conversion system. Instead of designers manually adjusting color values and creating plates, the system uses automatic image processing and color conversion algorithms to transform fluorescent color information into print-ready format, substituting manual operations with automated mechanical/electronic processes.
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
The solution enables easier creation of image data when using fluorescent colors, addressing the challenge of color conversion and improving the color reproduction range and hue in image processing systems.
Implementation Method 1
the NM ink has a peak of the fluorescence spectrum on the long wavelength side of the peak of the absorption spectrum
Data Source
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AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit (304) and a color conversion unit (305). The acquisition unit (304) is configured to acquire first image data to be subjected to color conversion. The color conversion unit (305) is configured to convert the first image data acquired by the acquisition unit (304) into second image data in which a dot area ratio of a target process color of process colors indicated by the first image data is distributed into a distributed dot area ratio of a fluorescent color different from the target process color and a distributed dot area ratio of the target process color.