Print Head Color Correction for Forward Backward Scan Differences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing technologies face challenges in minimizing color differences between forward and backward scan printing, particularly when applying color correction to images with fine lines or tiny details, as current methods can overcorrect and widen color differences between forward and backward scans.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus is configured to set different control parameters for processing image data based on the presence of line portions, using a setting unit to differentiate between first and second control parameters for forward and backward scans, and a processing unit to suppress color differences between forward and backward scans by switching between specific conversion tables for each scan direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same color correction table is applied to both forward and backward scans, then the device complexity is reduced, but color difference between forward and backward scans increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the color correction processing into separate forward-scan correction tables and backward-scan correction tables. The determination unit identifies whether the current scan is forward or backward, and the correction unit applies the appropriate correction table accordingly. This segmentation allows each correction table to be optimized for its specific scan direction, resolving the color difference issue while maintaining manageable system complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic selection of correction tables based on scan direction. The determination unit dynamically identifies the scan direction in real-time, and the correction unit dynamically switches between different correction tables. This dynamic approach ensures that the most appropriate correction is applied for each scan direction, improving color consistency without requiring a static, overly complex pre-configured system.
2Manufacturing precision
If strong color correction is applied to reduce color difference, then color consistency improves, but fine-line and tiny image portions become overcorrected and color difference widens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different correction strategies to different image regions. The correction tables are specifically designed to handle solid image portions and fine-line portions differently. For fine-line and tiny image portions, the correction intensity is reduced to prevent overcorrection, while solid portions receive stronger correction to eliminate color differences. This local quality approach ensures that each region receives appropriate correction without adversely affecting other regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies correction parameters based on image content characteristics. The correction tables contain adjusted parameter values that account for the specific requirements of different image types. For fine-line portions, parameters are tuned to provide gentler correction, while for solid portions, parameters are optimized for stronger correction. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the correction adaptive to the local image characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus processes image data to be used in a printing apparatus configured to perform forward and backward scan printing by using a print head in which nozzle arrays corresponding to multiple colors are aligned. The image processing apparatus includes: a setting unit configured to set a first control parameter in a case where image data to be processed does not include a line portion and to set a second control parameter in a case where the image data to be processed includes a line portion, the second parameter being different from the first control parameter; and a processing unit configured to perform, for the image data to be processed, processing to suppress a difference between a color printed in a forward scan and a color printed in a backward scan based on the control parameter set by the setting unit.