Mixed Pixel Image Printing for Dark Substrates and Color Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing color images on dark substrates suffer from limited optical performance and undesirable color biases due to misregistration of additive colors, and images using only optically variable pigments require large areas, compromising visibility.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a combination of RGB, RGBW, and hybrid pixels, each containing optically variable and broadband reflective pigments, to create images with controlled optically variable aspects and enhanced optical performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If additive colors are used to print on dark substrates, then optical performance is improved, but color bias occurs due to misregistration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different pixel types (RGB pixels with optically variable pigments, RGBW pixels with broadband reflective pigments, and hybrid pixels with both) in different regions of the image. This allows each region to have optimized properties: RGB pixels provide optically variable effects where needed, while RGBW pixels provide high brightness in areas where optically variable aspects are not required, thereby improving overall optical performance while maintaining color accuracy.
2Illumination intensity
If optically variable pigments are used extensively, then brightness is improved, but visibility of optically variable aspects is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by strategically placing different pixel types in different regions. RGB pixels containing optically variable pigments are used in areas where optically variable aspects need to be visible, while RGBW pixels with broadband reflective pigments are used in areas where high brightness is needed but optically variable aspects are not required. This selective distribution maintains both brightness and visibility of optically variable aspects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the image into different pixel types based on functional requirements. By dividing the image area into regions with different pixel compositions (RGB, RGBW, and hybrid pixels), the patent optimizes each segment for its specific purpose: some segments prioritize optically variable effects while others prioritize brightness, thereby resolving the contradiction between overall brightness and visibility of optically variable aspects.
3Illumination intensity
If broadband reflective pigments are used as white component, then reflectivity is improved, but optically variable aspects become less visible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using broadband reflective pigments (in RGBW pixels) only in specific regions where high reflectivity is needed and optically variable aspects are not required. In regions where optically variable aspects must be visible, the patent uses RGB pixels with optically variable pigments instead. This spatial differentiation allows the system to achieve high overall reflectivity while preserving visibility of optically variable aspects in critical areas.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution achieves improved optical performance and controlled optically variable aspects, enhancing image brightness and visibility while reducing pigment usage costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one type of pixel, of the two or more types of pixels, includes an optically variable pigment
Implementation Method 2
broadband reflective metallic pigments that act as highly reflective little mirrors, which have a much higher reflectivity than paper or other commonly used white substrates
Data Source
AI summary
An article, including a substrate; an image printed on the substrate; in which the image includes two or more types of pixels; in which the two or more types of pixels are chosen from an RGB pixel, an RGBW pixel, and a hybrid pixel; and in which at least one type of pixel, of the two or more types of pixels, includes an optically variable pigment is disclosed. A method of making and using the article is also disclosed.