Image Processing Region Segmentation for Smooth Ink Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing techniques fail to effectively suppress degradation of image quality due to abrupt color changes caused by mixing inks of different properties, particularly at the edges and intermediate regions of objects in printed images.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that sets distinct regions (edge, intermediate, and non-edge) and applies specific color processing to each pixel based on predefined ratios and probability masks to minimize ink overlap and abrupt color changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If gray compensation processing is performed using a single color (black ink), then edge sharpness is enhanced, but tonality and granularity degradation occurs in image regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different color processing methods to different spatial regions of the image. Edge regions use gray compensation with black ink for sharpness, while image regions use mixed color ink (cyan, magenta, yellow) for better tonality and granularity. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by optimizing each region for its specific quality requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The image is segmented into distinct regions (edge regions and image regions) based on spatial characteristics. This segmentation allows independent optimization of processing parameters for each region, enabling sharp edges in boundary areas while maintaining natural tonality in photographic areas.
2Manufacturing precision
If mixed color ink is used for gray information, then tonality and granularity are improved, but edge sharpness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reverses the application of local quality by assigning mixed color ink processing to image regions for tonality improvement, while restricting black ink gray compensation to edge regions only. This spatially differentiated approach ensures that each processing method is applied where it provides the greatest benefit.
3Manufacturing precision
If different color processing is applied at different positions, then regional quality is optimized, but abrupt color changes occur at region boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate region between the edge region and the image region that acts as a transition zone. In this intermediate region, the color processing is gradually changed from black ink-dominated to mixed color ink-dominated, preventing abrupt color changes at the boundary while maintaining the benefits of both processing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The color processing composition is made dynamic in the intermediate region, where the ratio of black ink to mixed color ink varies continuously based on the distance from the edge region. This dynamic adjustment ensures smooth color transitions while optimizing regional quality characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus comprises an execution unit configured to selectively execute, for each pixel in each of a first region, a second region, and an intermediate region, one of a plurality of processes including first processing of generating an output value indicating that a first printing material is applied and a second printing material of a color different from a color of the first printing material is not applied, and second processing of generating an output value indicating that the second printing material is applied.