Image Processing Apparatus for Mirror and Normal Image Printing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current image processing systems lack efficient methods for generating printing image data that can handle both mirror image printing and additional information printing, particularly in systems that produce printing plates and print directly onto media, with limitations in speed and size restrictions.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus that includes an input section for image and additional information, and a generating section that generates printing image data for mirror images and normal images based on user instructions, using RIP processing to convert data formats and execute necessary image processing such as rotation, addition of information, and size adjustments, allowing for flexible printing options between CTP and image forming apparatuses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the system generates printing image data for both mirror images and additional information simultaneously, then the versatility and adaptability of the printing system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to handle multiple printing conditions and data formats

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting optionsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The generating section is divided into distinct functional units: a mirror image generating unit that creates mirror images of main images, and an additional information generating unit that adds text or graphical information. This segmentation allows each unit to handle specific tasks independently, improving versatility while managing complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The generating section is designed to handle multiple printing conditions (mirror image printing, normal image printing, additional information printing) within a single integrated system. The system can selectively execute different processing paths based on printing conditions, providing universal functionality across various printing scenarios without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system processes and generates printing image data with multiple transformations (rotation, size adjustment, format conversion), then the adaptability to different media sizes and types is improved, but the processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemedia compatibilityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing image data including rotation, size adjustment, and format conversion before the actual printing operation. The generating section prepares the printing image data in advance with all necessary transformations applied, so that when printing is initiated, the data is already optimized for the target media, reducing delays during the printing process itself

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes parameters such as image rotation angles, size dimensions, and data formats based on the target media characteristics. The generating section automatically adjusts these parameters according to the printing conditions and media specifications, enabling adaptability to different media types while optimizing processing efficiency through parameter optimization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If the system handles both CTP printing and image forming apparatus printing with the same generating section, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing precision may be compromised due to different printing requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting system compatibilityVSAvoidprinting precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The generating section implements local quality by applying different processing standards and parameters tailored to each printing system type. For CTP printing, it generates high-precision plate data with specific resolution and format requirements, while for image forming apparatus printing, it adjusts to different resolution and color space requirements. Each processing path is optimized for its specific target system, maintaining precision while achieving versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS8705088B2Image processing apparatus including an input section and a generating section for printing image data, printing system, and computer readable medium
Publication Date: 2014.04.22 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP
  • US8705088B2 patent drawing
  • US8705088B2 patent drawing
  • US8705088B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes an input section that inputs image information and additional information; and a generating section that, in case that printing of a mirror image of an image according to the image information and a normal image of an image according to the additional information is instructed, generates printing image information for printing the mirror image of the image according to the image information input from the input section, and the normal image of the image according to the additional information input from the input section.