Scanning Printer Curing Unit Zebra-Banding Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing methods using radiation-curable inks often result in zebra-banding, a phenomenon where differences in the time interval between print passes lead to variations in print quality, causing unwanted banding patterns in the final image.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a scanning printer with a curing unit that controls the radiation output based on the time interval between print passes, using a predetermined output profile that varies from a non-zero minimum to a maximum output, ensuring consistent ink curing across the medium.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the print unit travels over an area more than once to obtain good print quality, then the print quality is improved, but zebra-banding occurs due to varying time intervals between passes
Solution Approach 1:
The curing unit dynamically adjusts its radiation output based on the time interval between print passes. The control system varies the radiation intensity in real-time according to the actual time elapsed since the previous pass, ensuring optimal curing for each specific interval and eliminating zebra-banding patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the radiation parameter (intensity) as a function of time interval. By establishing a relationship between time interval and radiation output, and applying appropriate radiation intensity for each time interval, the system achieves uniform curing across multiple passes without zebra-banding
2Reliability
If the output of the curing unit is increased to ensure complete ink curing, then the curing effectiveness is improved, but the time interval variations cause non-uniform curing and zebra-banding
Solution Approach 1:
The system adjusts the radiation parameter (intensity) as a function of time interval. By establishing a relationship between time interval and radiation output, and applying appropriate radiation intensity for each time interval, the system achieves uniform curing across multiple passes without zebra-banding
Solution Approach 2:
The control system monitors or calculates the time interval between passes and uses this information to adjust the radiation output accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that each area receives the appropriate radiation intensity based on its specific time interval, maintaining curing effectiveness while ensuring uniformity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly reduces the occurrence of zebra-banding, thereby enhancing the image quality of printed images by ensuring uniform curing and minimizing print quality variations.
Implementation Method 1
the ink is hardened by irradiating the ink using a curing unit configured to in operation emit a suitable source of radiation, such as UV radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a receiving medium, wherein the image is applied onto the recording medium by depositing a UV-curable ink and the ink is irradiated with radiation. The present invention further relates to a scanning printer and a software product.