Image Arrangement Unit Optimizing Sheet Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing methods fail to appropriately arrange multiple images on a sheet, leading to regions without images due to limitations in sheet size and aspect ratio, which affects user preferences for visibility and layout optimization.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that dynamically calculates the arrangement of images in rows and columns, minimizing regions without images by determining the optimal number of rows and columns based on user-specified sheet size and image aspect ratios, while allowing for the largest image size and minimal unused regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed sheet size is determined for printing, then the printing process can be simplified, but the images cannot be appropriately arranged when the sheet size does not match the user's desired layout
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic sheet size determination based on the number of images to be printed. The system automatically calculates the appropriate sheet size and aspect ratio according to the image arrangement requirements, allowing the sheet size to adapt rather than being fixed. This resolves the contradiction by making the printing process flexible enough to handle different layout needs while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sheet size parameter dynamically based on the number of images. When the number of images changes, the system recalculates the optimal sheet size and aspect ratio to maintain appropriate image arrangement. This parameter adaptation allows the printing system to accommodate various layout requirements without manual intervention.
2Ease of manufacture
If images are arranged in rows and columns with a predetermined number, then the layout can be standardized, but regions without images are created when the actual number of images does not match the predetermined number
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the number of rows and columns based on the actual number of images to be printed. Instead of using a fixed predetermined arrangement, the system calculates the optimal row-column configuration that fully utilizes the sheet space. This eliminates unused regions while maintaining a standardized and simple layout structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculation of the optimal arrangement configuration before actual printing. The system pre-determines the number of rows and columns based on the image count, ensuring that the layout is optimized in advance. This preliminary action prevents the creation of unused regions while maintaining layout simplicity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the sheet size is determined without considering image aspect ratios, then the printing process is simplified, but the images cannot be appropriately arranged to maximize visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the sheet size parameter based on the aspect ratio of the images. The system calculates the optimal sheet dimensions that match the image aspect ratio, ensuring that images are arranged to maximize visibility and minimize distortion. This parameter adjustment maintains printing simplicity while achieving precise and appropriate image arrangement.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus capable of appropriately arranging a plurality of images of an output target in an output region is provided. For example, when the plurality of images is arranged in rows and columns by the arrangement unit, if there is a row or a column in which a number of images is less than a predetermined number of images, the number of images in the row or column is identified. Then, from the plurality of combinations, based on the number of images identified by the identification unit, for each of a plurality of combinations of number of rows and number of columns when the plurality of imaged is arranged, a combination of the number of rows and the number of columns is determined.