Print Layer Configuration Visualization via Stacked Icons

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in confirming the layer configuration of stacked print layers in printing processes, requiring extensive effort to identify which check column corresponds to each layer, leading to increased trouble in verifying the configuration of printed layers.

Innovation Solution

An information processing device with an acquisition unit to group print layers and a display controller to output icons representing the layer configuration, allowing users to easily visualize the order of stacking through a user-friendly interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If check columns are used to designate color materials layer by layer, then layer configuration can be designated, but user effort to confirm layer configuration increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of confirming layer configurationVSAvoidtime required to confirm layer configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the layer configuration using icons that mirror the actual stacking order. Instead of requiring users to interpret check columns, the system generates an icon-based visual replica of the layer structure, allowing immediate confirmation without tedious checking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs different colors or visual distinctions in icons to represent different color materials and layer types. This visual encoding allows users to quickly identify and differentiate layers by their color characteristics, eliminating the need to methodically check each column to understand the layer configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple check columns are provided for each layer, then layer configuration can be specified, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to handle multiple color materialsVSAvoidcomplexity of layer configuration interface

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the layer configuration information into individual icons, where each icon represents a specific layer. This segmentation transforms the complex multi-column check system into discrete, manageable visual units that can be easily understood and manipulated, reducing overall interface complexity while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional check column grid to a layered icon arrangement that visually represents the third dimension of stacking order. By arranging icons to reflect the actual layer stacking sequence, the system adds a visual dimension that makes complex multi-material configuration simple to comprehend at a glance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11930140B2Information processing device, information processing method, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program

Publication Date: 2024.03.12 SEIKO EPSON CORP

AI summary

An information processing device includes an acquisition unit configured to obtain a group datum in which a plurality of print layers to be printed in a stacked manner is grouped, and a display controller configured to make a display unit output a plurality of icons which corresponds respectively to the plurality of print layers included in the group datum, and which is arranged in an order of stacking the print layers corresponding to the icons, as layer configuration information representing a layer configuration of the group datum.