Image Forming System Margin Area Adjustment for Identification Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming systems fail to reliably print identification information outside the printing area of a conveyance medium, as it often gets cancelled due to margin areas, leading to incomplete or missing identification data.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system that includes a print image generation unit and a print control unit, which generates print image data to print identification information in a designated margin area not used for the primary image, allowing for reliable printing of identification information by reducing the margin area and adding a blank image to accommodate the identification data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If identification information is printed in the margin area outside the printing area, then identification information can be printed, but the margin area may be insufficient causing the identification information to be cancelled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the margin area based on the amount of identification information to be printed. The control unit calculates the required margin area size according to the number of pages and identification information content, then sets the margin area accordingly. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the margin area is always sufficient to accommodate the identification information without being wasted when less information needs to be printed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of margin area width to ensure reliable printing of identification information. By calculating the appropriate margin width based on the identification information requirements and setting it in the print control unit, the system ensures that the identification information is always printed within the available margin area without being cancelled.
2Reliability
If margin area is reduced to accommodate identification information, then identification information can be printed reliably, but the area for primary image printing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a distinct margin area with specific properties (non-printing area for primary images but printing area for identification information). The margin area is differentiated from the main printing area, allowing identification information to be printed in this specific local region without affecting the primary image printing area. This local differentiation resolves the conflict by providing a dedicated space for identification information that doesn't encroach on the primary image area.
3Reliability
If identification information is printed outside the printing area, then it avoids interference with primary image, but may be cancelled due to insufficient margin area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by calculating and setting the appropriate margin area width before printing the identification information. The control unit determines the required margin area size based on the number of pages and identification information content, then configures the printing system accordingly. This preliminary setup ensures that the margin area is sufficient to accommodate all identification information without cancellation, preventing information loss before the actual printing occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by having the control unit calculate the required margin area based on the identification information to be printed, then adjust the margin setting accordingly. The system continuously monitors the relationship between the number of pages, identification information content, and margin area size, making adjustments to ensure the identification information is always printed reliably without being cancelled.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming system (10) includes a print image generation unit (212) and a print control unit (210). The print image generation unit (212) generates print image data for printing a first image included in print job data, on a conveyance medium. The print control unit (210) controls printing on the conveyance medium based on the print image data. The print image generation unit (212) sets an area for printing a second image including identification information to identify each page of the conveyance medium, in a first area where the first image is not printed, to generate the print image data.