Multi-Level Inkjet Compensation via Neighboring Pixel Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet printers that emit multiple ink drop sizes struggle to compensate for inoperable inkjets, as current compensation methods are not suited for multi-level printers, leading to defects in printed images.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a controller identifies pixels to be printed by an inoperable inkjet, modifies neighboring pixel values to compensate for the inoperable inkjet, and stores these modifications in memory to control neighboring inkjets, allowing them to eject ink drops and maintain image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing binary halftoned compensation methods are used in multi-level printers, then inoperable inkjets can be compensated, but the compensation is ineffective because multi-level printers require multi-bit halftoned image data with multiple drop sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of image data representation from binary (2 levels) to multi-bit halftoned (4 or more levels), enabling the compensation method to work with multiple ink drop sizes. This allows the system to redistribute ink coverage by varying drop sizes rather than just drop presence, making the compensation effective for multi-level printers
2Manufacturing precision
If inoperable inkjets are compensated by redistributing pixels to neighboring inkjets, then image quality is maintained, but the complexity of image processing increases due to multi-bit halftoned data manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs compensation processing on multi-bit halftoned image data before printing, identifying inoperable inkjets and redistributing their pixel coverage to neighboring inkjets in advance. This preliminary processing maintains image quality during actual printing without requiring real-time adjustments, reducing operational complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method of compensating for an inoperable inkjet in an inkjet printer that forms printed images with multiple drop sizes has been developed. The method includes identifying at least one neighboring pixel in a region of multi-bit halftoned image data around a pixel corresponding to the inoperable inkjet and modifying the at least one neighboring pixel to enable an inkjet that neighbors the inoperable inkjet to eject an ink drop during printing operation to compensate for the inoperable inkjet.