Print Head Alignment via Unprinted Region Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing printing method may result in white streaks or black streaks on printed images due to misalignment of images, impairing image quality.

Innovation Solution

A printing method that adjusts the relative position and attitude of the print head using a sensor to detect unprinted regions in the first image, allowing precise alignment of the second image, preventing streaks without compromising image quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If the feed amount of the printing object and the deflection amount of ink droplets are adjusted according to the print position interval, then white streaks or black streaks are prevented, but the printed mark may remain on the printing object and image quality is impaired

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewhite streaks or black streaksVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by forming an unprinted region in the first image before detecting it with a sensor. This allows the system to pre-establish a reference area that will be used to detect misalignment and adjust printing parameters before the second image is printed, preventing streaks while maintaining image quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using a sensor to detect the unprinted region and based on the detection result, adjusting the relative position and attitude of the print head. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the second image is precisely aligned with the first image, preventing both streaks and quality impairment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If the relative position and attitude of the print head are adjusted based on sensor detection, then image alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage alignment precisionVSAvoidprinting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by providing the print head with an integrated sensor that automatically detects the unprinted region and provides feedback for adjustment. The system performs its own alignment verification and correction without requiring external intervention, improving precision while minimizing the need for additional complex external devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12115798B2Printing method
Publication Date: 2024.10.15 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12115798B2 patent drawing
  • US12115798B2 patent drawing
  • US12115798B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A printing method for printing a first image and a second image while changing a relative position and a relative attitude of a print head relative to a printing object, includes a first printing step of printing a first print image obtained by forming an unprinted region in the first image, a detecting step of detecting the unprinted region, an adjusting step of adjusting the print head such that the second image adjoins the first image, and a second printing step of printing a second print image including the second image and a partial image.