Mixed-Resolution Relief Precursor Layouts for Faster Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the layout of raster image files on relief precursors are inefficient, leading to wasted space and prolonged imaging times, especially when images have different resolutions or quality settings, and do not account for customer-specific considerations or priorities.
Innovation Solution
A method that optimizes the layout of image job data on relief precursors by considering factors such as imaging time, precursor usage, image job priority, and customer preferences, using processing means to determine layouts that minimize waste and accelerate imaging processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If raster image files are arranged in a classical scanning manner on relief precursors, then the layout determination is simple, but the precursor space utilization is poor and imaging time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic layout determination that adapts to different customer priorities and image characteristics. The system dynamically adjusts layout strategies based on whether the customer prioritizes precursor utilization, imaging speed, or a balance of both, rather than using a fixed scanning arrangement approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the arrangement parameters of raster image files on the precursor based on different imaging modes and resolutions. By adjusting how images are positioned and oriented according to their specific characteristics and customer preferences, the system achieves better space utilization and reduced imaging time compared to the classical scanning method.
2Adaptability or versatility
If raster image files with different resolutions and quality settings are arranged on relief precursors, then more diverse image requirements are met, but the imaging time increases due to multiple imaging modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different imaging modes to different regions of the precursor based on the resolution and quality requirements of individual image files. High-resolution images receive detailed imaging treatment while lower-resolution images use optimized imaging modes, allowing the system to handle diverse image requirements without uniformly increasing imaging time across the entire precursor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the imaging process into different modes corresponding to different image resolutions and quality settings. By dividing the precursor into regions that require different imaging approaches, the system can efficiently process diverse image types while minimizing the total imaging time through optimized segment handling.
3Loss of substance
If the layout is optimized to reduce waste portion of relief precursors, then precursor utilization improves, but the layout determination becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The layout determination system automatically optimizes precursor utilization by self-adjusting the arrangement of image files based on their dimensions, resolutions, and imaging mode requirements. The system performs self-optimization without requiring manual intervention, achieving reduced waste while maintaining manageable complexity through automated algorithms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual user selection is used for image arrangement, then customer preferences can be considered, but the process is not automated and requires user involvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates customer preferences as feedback parameters that guide the automated layout determination process. The system receives input about customer priorities (such as prioritizing imaging speed or precursor utilization) and uses this feedback to automatically adjust the layout strategy, combining automation with customer-specific requirements without manual intervention in the actual arrangement process.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining at least one layout for imaging at least one relief precursor, comprising: receiving image job data for at least one image job comprising at least two raster image files having at least two different resolutions and/or at least two different quality settings requiring different imaging modes; and determining, using processing means, at least one layout including the image job data for imaging at least one mask layer of the at least one relief precursor, taking into account a total amount of imaging time required to image the at least one mask layer.