Image Processing Apparatus for Overlapped Nozzle Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connected heads with overlapped nozzle arrays experience density and granularity unevenness due to registration misalignment, leading to decreased image quality, and existing methods do not effectively address these issues in the overlapped portions.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus and method that distribute multivalued image data across multiple planes and adjust the distribution method for each plane to ensure overlapping dots are recorded on both chips in the overlapped portion, using a combination of nozzle arrays from both chips as a single plane and applying different masks to each plane to manage dot coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a connected head with overlapped nozzle arrays is used to perform high-speed recording, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to registration misalignment between chips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the overlapped portion into multiple segments (first overlapped portion and second overlapped portion) and applies different processing methods to each segment. The first overlapped portion uses a first processing method while the second overlapped portion uses a second processing method, allowing targeted correction of registration misalignment in different areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different image processing methods to different local regions of the overlapped portion. By identifying first and second overlapped portions with different characteristics, the system applies customized processing (first processing method vs. second processing method) to each region, optimizing the correction effect for each local area.
2Device complexity
If conventional image processing methods are applied to the overlapped portion, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to density unevenness and granularity unevenness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the overlapped portion into distinct regions (first and second overlapped portions) and applies different processing methods to each segment. This segmentation allows the system to address different types of registration misalignment and density unevenness with appropriate processing strategies for each region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes processing parameters by applying different processing methods to different overlapped portions. The first processing method and second processing method have different parameters and characteristics, allowing optimization of image quality for each specific overlapped region while maintaining overall system effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
When distributing image data of a plurality of planes to a first chip and a second chip that constitute the same overlapped portion of a connected head, a distribution method is changed for at least a part of the plurality of planes.