Print Apparatus Edge Pixel Processing for Image Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing print apparatuses using multi-level dither methods often produce jagged edges in images due to inadequate separation of edge and non-edge pixels, leading to suboptimal image quality and increased hardware or software load.
Innovation Solution
A print apparatus that includes an edge detector, screen processor, pulse width converter, and output unit to differentiate and process edge and non-edge pixels separately, using attribute information to determine pulse width data for accurate image formation without increasing load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If edge detection is performed using color information, then edge pixels and non-edge pixels can be separated accurately, but processing load increases and buffer size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary attribute information from the input image data to identify edge pixels, rather than performing complete color analysis. This selective extraction reduces processing load while maintaining sufficient accuracy for edge detection, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing is segmented into two distinct paths: edge pixels undergo filtering processing while non-edge pixels undergo screen processing. This segmentation allows each pixel type to be handled with the appropriate level of processing, reducing overall computational load while maintaining edge detection accuracy where needed.
2Productivity
If multi-level dither method is used for screen processing, then processing efficiency is maintained, but jagged edges and broken fine lines occur at low density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different processing methods to different regions of the image based on edge detection results. Edge pixels receive filtering processing to prevent jagged edges, while non-edge pixels receive screen processing to maintain processing efficiency. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between productivity and manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of applying complex filtering to all pixels, the patent applies filtering only partially to edge pixels where it is most needed. This partial action maintains processing efficiency while improving image quality at critical edge portions, resolving the contradiction between productivity and manufacturing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A print apparatus includes an edge detector using attribute information, a screen processor which binarizes each pixel included in image data with a screen processing, a pulse width converter which converts each pixel included in the image data to pulse width data in accordance with an input gradation value, and an output unit which outputs pulse width data from either of the screen processor or the pulse width converter for each pixel. The output unit outputs the pulse width data from the pulse width converter for an edge pixel and outputs the pulse width data from the screen processor for a non-edge pixel.