Nozzle Assignment for Laminated Inkjet Surface Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing technologies face challenges in minimizing surface irregularities and image quality degradation when forming laminated images using inkjet methods, as the accumulation of uneven ejection from nozzles leads to streaks and unevenness, especially with multiple layers.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that acquires and determines if image data is laminated, generating print data by varying the nozzle assignment for each pixel across layers, ensuring a different nozzle is used for identical pixel positions in each layer, thereby minimizing surface irregularities and maintaining productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the same nozzle is used to record dots at identical pixel positions across all layers, then the process is simple and fast, but surface irregularities and streaks accumulate due to uneven ejection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the nozzle assignment by layer, where each layer has a dedicated nozzle assignment pattern. This segmentation prevents the accumulation of uneven ejection errors from the same nozzle across multiple layers, thereby improving surface uniformity while maintaining manageable complexity through systematic layer-by-layer assignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different nozzle assignment strategies to different layers. Specifically, odd-numbered layers use one nozzle assignment pattern while even-numbered layers use another pattern. This local differentiation ensures that each layer benefits from optimized nozzle selection, reducing surface irregularities without requiring complete redesign of the entire system.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple layers are formed with the same nozzle assignment, then productivity is high, but image quality degrades due to streaks and unevenness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic nozzle assignment that changes based on the layer number. The control unit dynamically selects different nozzle assignment patterns for odd and even layers, allowing the system to adapt to the specific requirements of each layer while maintaining high printing speed. This dynamic adjustment prevents image quality degradation without sacrificing productivity.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed nozzle assignment pattern is used for all layers, then the processing is simple and fast, but surface irregularities accumulate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic alternation between different nozzle assignment patterns for odd and even layers. This periodic action creates a rhythm in the nozzle selection process that prevents the accumulation of systematic errors. The simplicity of the alternating pattern makes it easy to implement while effectively maintaining surface uniformity across all layers.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus that outputs print data to a recording apparatus including a recording unit that causes each of a plurality of nozzles to eject droplets to record dots on a recording medium, the image processing apparatus comprises: an acquiring module that acquires image data for an image to be formed by the recording unit; a determining module that determines whether or not the image data is laminated image data formed of a plurality of layers; and a generating module that generates, when the image data is the laminated image data, the print data that assigns nozzles for recording dots corresponding to respective pixels of the laminated image data such that a specific nozzle for recording dots that correspond to pixels at an identical pixel position in the laminated image data varies from one layer to another.