Computer-Assisted Pattern Generation for Workpiece Printing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for applying patterns to workpieces, such as those made of wood or plastic, are limited by the availability of suitable print templates and image files, restricting the variety of variants and individualization.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that utilize computer-assisted generation and adaptation of image files, taking into account user selections, workpiece parameters, and printing device parameters, to create customized patterns without being restricted by available templates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If pre-defined print templates and image files are used for pattern application, then the printing process is simple and fast, but the variety of variants and individualization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting speedVSAvoidvariety of variants
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables users to create their own custom image files through an intuitive interface without requiring external templates. Users can directly define pattern parameters, colors, and designs, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating dependency on pre-defined templates while maintaining fast printing speeds

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic pattern generation where image files are created or adapted in real-time based on user selections and workpiece parameters. This dynamic approach allows unlimited variety of variants while maintaining efficient printing throughput through automated generation processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If custom image files are created manually for each workpiece, then the variety of variants increases, but the time and effort required increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveindividualizationVSAvoidimage file creation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating or adapting image files based on user selections before the actual printing process. This pre-generation approach eliminates manual creation time while enabling high individualization, as the system prepares customized patterns automatically based on selected parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical image creation processes with automated computer-assisted generation and adaptation systems. This substitution eliminates time-consuming manual work while maintaining or enhancing individualization capabilities through algorithmic generation based on user selections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If print templates are sourced from external providers, then the quality can be high, but licensing restrictions and availability limitations apply

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern qualityVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts the essential pattern generation capability from external template dependencies. By implementing internal image file generation and adaptation functions, the system removes the constraint of external template availability and licensing restrictions while maintaining high pattern quality through controlled generation processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS20250074073A1Method and device for applying patterns to a workpiece, and computer program
Publication Date: 2025.03.06 HOMAG GMBH
  • US20250074073A1 patent drawing
  • US20250074073A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Method for applying patterns to a workpiece which is preferably composed at least in portions of wood, wood material or plastic, having the steps: performing at least one selection in terms of a decor for the application of patterns to the surface of the workpiece, computer-assisted generation and/or adapting of at least one image file taking into account the at least one selection, and at least partial application of patterns to the workpiece by means of a printing device.