Print Controller Index Image for Waste Paper Recycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual separation of waste paper in recycling processes is inefficient due to the need for manual classification based on print substance and material type, leading to low work efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A print controller and image forming apparatus that print an index image on the record medium to facilitate automatic separation, using a program product to calculate the print ratio and determine the type of record medium, allowing for efficient recycling by printing recycle classification information on the paper.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual separation of waste paper is performed based on print substance and material type, then classification accuracy is improved, but work efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by printing classification information (index images including barcodes) on the paper during the printing process itself. This allows the paper to be pre-labeled with its recycling category before collection, enabling automatic sorting later without requiring manual inspection and classification at the recycling stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical sorting process with an automatic optical recognition system. Readers scan the printed index images (barcodes) on collected paper to automatically identify and sort paper types, substituting human labor with automated image recognition and sorting machinery.
2Loss of time
If no index image is printed on the record medium, then printing cost is reduced, but separation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the printing system multi-functional by integrating both the original document printing function and the classification information printing function into a single printing process. The index image is printed alongside the document content in one operation, eliminating the need for separate labeling steps and utilizing existing printing resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing system serves dual purposes: it produces the document content while simultaneously providing the classification information needed for recycling. The paper itself carries its own sorting instructions through the printed index image, making the paper self-identifying for the recycling process.
Data Source
AI summary
A print controller for controlling an image print unit to print an index image on a recording medium to be used for separation when a printed record medium is recycled, includes: an output unit that outputs image data representing an image to be printed on the record medium to the image print unit; and an index unit that determines the index image to be printed on the record medium together with the image by the image print unit based on a printing condition.