Print Mode Determination Using Preflight Image Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in determining whether to print in color or black-and-white mode efficiently, especially when neither the printer driver nor the image forming apparatus can display thumbnail images, and require analyzing pixel information of all pixels, leading to increased mental and physical load on users and longer processing times.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that includes a preflight image generator for generating image data for preflight checks, a print mode determiner to analyze pixel information for determining the print mode, a preflight checker for performing preflight checks, a raster image processor for processing print jobs in determined modes, and a print unit for executing printing, allowing for print mode determination in a shorter time without relying on display-capable functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pixel information of all pixels in image data is analyzed to determine the degree of color pixels, then the accuracy of print mode determination is improved, but the load of determination processing and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image data into multiple regions (e.g., foreground regions and background regions) and selectively analyzes pixel information only in specific regions rather than all pixels. This segmentation approach maintains determination accuracy by focusing on color-critical areas while reducing overall processing time through selective sampling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by analyzing only a subset of pixels (e.g., sampled pixels from specific regions) rather than all pixels in the image data. This partial analysis provides sufficient information for accurate print mode determination while significantly reducing the computational load and processing time compared to complete pixel analysis.
2Loss of time
If thumbnail image data is generated and analyzed to determine print mode, then the processing time is reduced, but the solution cannot be applied to apparatuses without thumbnail display functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal solution that works for both apparatuses with and without thumbnail display functions. By using the same image data source (image data generated during raster image processing) and analysis method for both types of apparatus, the invention achieves multi-functionality and broad adaptability across different configuration scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the image data generated during raster image processing as an intermediary that serves dual purposes: it can be used for thumbnail display when the apparatus has that capability, and simultaneously serves as the basis for print mode determination. This intermediary data structure enables the solution to bridge different apparatus configurations without requiring separate processing paths.
3Measurement precision
If the user designates the print mode based on full knowledge of image contents, then the accuracy of print mode selection is improved, but the mental and physical load on the user increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the image forming apparatus to automatically determine the print mode through analysis of image data without requiring user intervention. The apparatus independently analyzes pixel information, identifies color content, and selects the appropriate print mode, thereby eliminating the need for users to mentally process image contents while maintaining accurate print mode selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the apparatus analyzes image data, determines color content presence, and uses this information to automatically adjust print mode settings. This closed-loop feedback system replaces manual user decision-making with automated analysis, reducing user burden while preserving selection accuracy through objective image data evaluation.
Data Source
AI summary
A print-mode determination processor determines the print mode of a print job that is described in a page description language (PDL) and that has a print mode set to an automatic determination mode, using image data generated for a preflight check by a preflight checker that performs a preflight check of image data of a print job. The image data for a preflight check has a resolution lower than that of thumbnail image data and sufficient to determine whether to set a color print mode or a black-and-white print mode, such as presence or absence of a color part in the image data of the print job or the degree of the color part, so that the time required for generating and analyzing image data for print mode determination can be shortened.