Deriving Multicolor Text Ink Limits from Single Color Constraints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Inkjet printing systems face challenges with print defects such as bleed and mottle due to water-based inks, requiring manual determination of upper ink limits for each paper type and font size, which is time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A method to automatically derive total ink limits for multi-ink texts using a text ink limit algorithm, allowing users to input only one or two ink limits, and applying these limits to all parts of a print job to minimize visual defects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single ink limit is applied to all text colors, then the setup process is simplified, but the printing quality for multi-color text deteriorates due to excessive ink application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of ink limit setupVSAvoidprinting quality of multi-color text
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the single ink limit into multiple color-specific limits (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) and combinations thereof. The system divides the overall ink constraint into manageable portions that can be independently controlled and optimized for different text color compositions, thereby maintaining both operational simplicity and printing quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter approach by introducing multiple ink limit parameters (C, M, Y, K and their combinations) instead of a single parameter. The system dynamically adjusts these parameters based on the specific color composition of each text element, enabling precise control over ink application while preserving the simplicity of automated limit management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple ink limits are specified for different text colors, then printing quality is improved, but the complexity of determining and managing these limits increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting quality of textVSAvoidcomplexity of ink limit determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the system automatically determines the appropriate ink limits for multi-color text by analyzing the color composition of each text element. The automated algorithm calculates the required ink limits based on the number and type of inks used, eliminating the need for manual specification of multiple limits while maintaining high printing quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes ink limit parameters based on the color composition analysis. Instead of requiring manual setup of multiple fixed parameters, the system automatically adjusts the ink limits (C, M, Y, K and combinations) according to the specific color requirements of each text element, reducing operational complexity while preserving precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If higher ink loads are used for multi-color text, then color range and saturation are improved, but print defects such as ink bleed increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor range and saturationVSAvoidink bleed and print defects
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality control by setting different ink limits for different color combinations based on their specific requirements. Each text element receives a customized ink limit configuration that allows sufficient ink for the desired color saturation while preventing excessive ink application that would cause bleeding. The system locally optimizes ink usage for each color composition rather than applying a uniform limit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes ink limit parameters according to the color composition of each text element. By analyzing the number and type of inks required (single-color, two-color, three-color, or four-color text), the system adjusts the ink limits (C, M, Y, K and their combinations) to achieve optimal color saturation while preventing ink bleed and other print defects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7407242B2Derivation of multicolor text colorant limits from single color text colorant limit
Publication Date: 2008.08.05 EASTMAN KODAK CO
  • US7407242B2 patent drawing
  • US7407242B2 patent drawing
  • US7407242B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The method for a printing device determines the maximum amount of colorant that is to be deposited on a specific region of print media to form an image with a reduced quantity of visual defects. The method entails inputting at least one colorant value on the specific region of print media. The at least one colorant value indicates a total amount of at least one colorant that is to be applied by the printing device. A colorant limit is derived for each color or combinations thereof according to a text ink limit algorithm and each derived color ink limit is applied to the image to limit the quantity of ink used by the printing device when one of the derived colorant limits is exceeded.