Printer Preview Image Superimposition for Shrinkage Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses lack effective visualization and correction of image positions on print media, particularly due to shrinkage ratios, which can lead to inaccuracies in processing positions after printing.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a display controller that superimposes a preview image of the image to be printed and processing positions on the print medium, allowing for correction based on shrinkage ratios, and includes a data acquisition section to obtain and correct processing position data, enabling accurate positioning and processing on the print medium.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the image is printed directly on the print medium without visualization, then the printing process is simple, but the positional accuracy of processing after printing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a preview image that is a visual copy of the print medium showing both the printed image and processing positions. This copy allows operators to verify positional accuracy before actual processing, resolving the contradiction by providing a reference model without adding physical complexity to the printing mechanism itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The preview image serves as an intermediary between the printing process and post-print processing. It mediates the positional information, allowing operators to understand the relationship between the printed image and processing positions without requiring direct measurement or complex alignment systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If shrinkage ratio correction is not applied, then the processing is simpler, but the processing position accuracy after printing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies shrinkage ratio correction in advance during the preview image generation. The processing positions are pre-adjusted based on expected shrinkage, so when the actual processing occurs, the positions are already accurate. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex real-time correction systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates shrinkage ratio data into the preview generation process, creating a feedback loop where historical or measured shrinkage information is used to improve positioning accuracy. This feedback mechanism maintains precision without requiring complex active correction systems during processing.
3Ease of operation
If the preview image shows only the printed image without processing positions, then the display is simpler, but the operator's understanding of positional relationships deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the printed image display with processing position indicators into a single preview image. Both pieces of information are combined in one visual representation, allowing operators to understand positional relationships immediately without switching between multiple displays or interpretations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses different visual representations (such as overlays, markers, or color coding) to distinguish between the printed image and processing positions within the preview. This visual differentiation enhances operator understanding without requiring separate physical displays or complex interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes a printing mechanism, a display device, a print controller configured to control the printing mechanism to print an image on a print medium, and a display controller configured to make the display device display a preview image in which the image to be printed on the print medium and a processing position where processing is performed on the print medium after the printing are superimposed with each other, wherein the print controller makes the printing mechanism print the image and a processing position image representing the processing position.