Image Offset Determination via Overlapping Symbol Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printing devices often produce images that are not centered on printable media, requiring users to manually measure and correct for offset using tools like rulers, which is inefficient and error-prone.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that automatically determine image registration offset by creating and overlapping patterns of symbols or numerical values on the media in different orientations, allowing the processor to calculate the offset without manual measurement, using a print mechanism, input module, and memory to adjust image registration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement tools like rulers are used to determine printing offset, then measurement can be performed, but the process is inefficient and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools (rulers, physical crosshairs) with an automated optical/electronic system. The print mechanism prints symbolic patterns that are captured by an imager, and a processor automatically calculates offset from these patterns, eliminating the need for manual mechanical measurement and thereby improving both precision and efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement procedures are used for image registration calibration, then offset can be determined, but the process requires user intervention and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration by automatically printing test patterns, capturing images of these patterns, and computing the offset values without requiring user measurement or intervention. The processor autonomously determines the image registration offset from the captured symbolic patterns, making the calibration process self-service and significantly reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement procedures with an automated digital system that uses symbolic patterns and image processing algorithms to rapidly calculate offset, eliminating the need for user intervention and dramatically reducing calibration time.
3Extent of automation
If symbolic patterns are printed and overlapped in different orientations, then automatic offset determination is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses symbolic representations (printed patterns that are copies or representations of reference marks) instead of complex physical measurement apparatus. By printing symbolic patterns and using their digital images for calculation, the system achieves automation while keeping the physical device relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement devices with a simplified system consisting of a print mechanism, imager, and processor that work together to automatically determine offset through digital image analysis of printed symbolic patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
Determining an image offset of a device includes receiving a printable media in a first orientation, creating a first pattern including a first plurality of symbols on a first side of the printable media, receiving the printable media in a second orientation, creating a second pattern including a second plurality of symbols overlapping the first pattern on the first side of the printable media, and determining the image offset of the device based on a difference between the first and second patterns.