Ink Consumption Estimation Using Adjustment Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet printing systems inaccurately estimate ink consumption due to neglecting adjustment data specific to each printing apparatus, leading to ink wastage and cost miscalculations.
Innovation Solution
A method that obtains adjustment data from job information to correct image data, allowing for precise ink consumption estimation by accounting for factors like base material, printing mode, and nozzle adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ink consumption estimation methods are used without adjustment data, then the estimation process is simple and fast, but the estimation accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary correction of image data using adjustment data before the actual printing process. By pre-applying the shading process and other adjustments to the image data, the system calculates the actual ink consumption that would occur during printing, thereby improving estimation accuracy without adding significant complexity to the operational flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces corrected image data as an intermediary between the original image data and the ink consumption calculation. This corrected image data, which incorporates adjustment data such as shading corrections, serves as a mediator that reflects the actual printing conditions, enabling accurate ink consumption estimation without requiring complex real-time monitoring during printing.
2Measurement precision
If adjustment data is incorporated into the estimation process, then estimation accuracy improves, but the processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the necessary adjustment data (such as shading correction data) from the complete set of printing parameters and applies it to the image data. By selectively taking out and applying only the relevant adjustments rather than processing all possible parameters, the system maintains high estimation accuracy while minimizing additional processing time.
3Loss of substance
If printing is performed without accurate ink consumption prediction, then the printing process is straightforward, but ink wastage and base material wastage occur when ink runs out
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback to the user about the estimated ink consumption before the printing job starts. By calculating and displaying the predicted ink usage based on corrected image data and adjustment data, the system enables users to make informed decisions about printing parameters or refill ink in advance, preventing wastage without requiring complex real-time monitoring or intervention during printing.
Data Source
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AI summary
After obtaining a print job (step S10), adjustment data is obtained based on job information included in the print job (step S20). After determining an estimation range (step S30), image data to be printed is corrected using the adjustment data (step S40). Then, an amount of ink which is predicted to be consumed by printing of an image represented by the corrected image data is calculated (step S50). Furthermore, when flushing is performed, an amount of ink which is predicted to be consumed by flushing is calculated (step S70).