Image Processing Device Conversion Table Search Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems lack an efficient method to select the appropriate conversion table for converting input image data into ink amount data, especially when multiple setting values are input by the user.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device and method that includes an input unit for inputting search conditions, an acquisition unit for acquiring search values based on the input conditions, and a search unit for searching multiple image conversion tables to identify a target conversion table based on the acquired search values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conversion tables are stored for different paper types and conditions, then the adaptability and printing quality are improved, but the device complexity and table selection difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using multiple search values (first, second, and third search values) that represent different parameters such as paper type, ink type, and printing conditions. Each conversion table is associated with specific parameter combinations, and the search unit selects the appropriate table by matching these parameters. This resolves the contradiction by systematically organizing conversion tables based on parameter variations, making the selection process efficient despite having multiple tables for different conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary search mechanism that mediates between the user's printing conditions and the appropriate conversion table. The search unit acts as an intermediary that automatically matches the input search values with the correct conversion table, eliminating the need for manual selection. This intermediary process simplifies the user interface while maintaining the ability to handle multiple conversion tables for different paper types and conditions.
2Productivity
If manual conversion table selection is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and user time consumption decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the search unit to automatically select the appropriate conversion table without requiring manual user intervention. The system autonomously compares the input search values with the stored conversion table parameters and selects the best match. This self-service mechanism significantly improves productivity and eliminates time loss associated with manual table selection, while the automated process handles the complexity internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-organizing conversion tables with associated search values and parameters before the actual printing process. The search unit has access to pre-configured conversion tables that are ready for immediate comparison and selection. This preliminary organization allows for rapid automatic selection during printing operations, improving productivity without requiring real-time manual intervention.
3Ease of operation
If automatic search and selection of conversion tables is implemented, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the conversion table selection process into distinct functional components: an input unit for receiving search conditions, a search unit for comparing parameters, and a selection mechanism for choosing the appropriate table. Each component handles a specific aspect of the selection process, making the overall system easier to operate despite the automated complexity. The segmentation allows the system to manage multiple conversion tables systematically without overwhelming the user.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image processing device coupled to a printing device that performs printing on a medium by ejecting ink having a plurality of colors, and configured to convert image data into ink amount data. The image processing device includes: an input unit configured to input a search condition; an acquisition unit configured to acquire a plurality of search values based on the search condition input by the input unit; a table storage unit storing a plurality of image conversion tables for converting the image data into the ink amount data; and a search unit configured to search the plurality of image conversion tables for a target image conversion table based on the plurality of search values acquired by the acquisition unit.