Pre-press Curve Selection for Print Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for correcting dot gain in printing are inefficient and costly, requiring numerous custom adjustment curves that vary with press conditions, leading to unmanageable chaos and increased costs due to the need for frequent test runs.
Innovation Solution
A system using predetermined, synchronized press adjustment curves, identified by contrast profile families and midpoint magnitude values, which eliminates the need for custom curves by matching pre-determined curves to specific press conditions, allowing for quick selection and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If custom adjustment curves are created for each press condition, then print quality accuracy is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying key parameters of adjustment curves (midpoint magnitude, contrast profile, slope) to create a structured family of curves. Instead of creating entirely custom curves for each press condition, the system modifies parameters within predefined curve families to adapt to different press conditions, reducing complexity while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the adjustment curve into distinct controllable components: midpoint magnitude, contrast profile, and slope. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each parameter to match specific press conditions without redesigning the entire curve, thereby reducing system complexity while preserving print quality accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous custom curves are created to account for press variations, then adaptability to different press conditions is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling real-time selection and adjustment of curve parameters based on current press conditions. The system dynamically adapts to changing press conditions by selecting appropriate curves from the structured family and adjusting parameters like midpoint magnitude and contrast profile, maintaining ease of operation while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system improves ease of operation by allowing operators to adjust a limited set of key parameters (midpoint magnitude, contrast profile selection) rather than creating entirely new curves. This parameter-based approach maintains high adaptability to press conditions while significantly reducing operational complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If frequent test runs are performed to create custom curves, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing a structured family of adjustment curves covering a range of press conditions before actual printing begins. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for frequent test runs during production, as operators can select appropriate pre-configured curves based on current press conditions, thereby maintaining color accuracy while improving productivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple custom curves are maintained for different users and conditions, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single structured curve family that serves multiple users and press conditions. The standardized parameters and organized structure allow any user to quickly select and adjust appropriate curves for their specific conditions without maintaining separate custom curves, reducing time loss while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for adjusting color tones of an input digital image file to create an adjusted digital image file. A plurality of predetermined curves are provided, each curve specifying an adjusted color tone percentage output as a function of input color tone percentage and representing a combination of midpoint magnitude and contrast different than for any other curve. The method comprises selecting a curve by determining which one of the plurality of curves most closely matches at least two data points. The selected curve is then applied to the input digital image file to produce the adjusted digital image file.