Printer Simulator Image Evaluation Across Multiple Quality Metrics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques face difficulties in comparing evaluation results obtained by multiple determination methods for evaluating images, making it challenging to assess the impact of printer driver, PDL module, or OS changes on image quality.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that includes a printer simulator to create print-processing images without an actual image forming apparatus, allowing comparison of evaluation results from multiple determination methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple determination methods are used to evaluate images, then evaluation comprehensiveness is improved, but comparison difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the evaluation process into distinct determination methods (e.g., PSNR, SSIM, LPIPS) that operate independently on image data. Each method produces separate evaluation results that can be individually analyzed and compared, transforming a complex unified evaluation into manageable discrete components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computing device that receives image data, applies multiple determination methods, and consolidates the results. This intermediary processes the complex comparisons between multiple evaluation methods, shielding users from the complexity while delivering comprehensive evaluation outcomes.
2Measurement precision
If physical image forming apparatus is used for evaluation, then evaluation accuracy is improved, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the image forming apparatus through software-based determination methods. Instead of physically printing and evaluating images, the system uses computational models (PSNR, SSIM, LPIPS) that replicate the evaluation function, eliminating the need for physical apparatus while maintaining evaluation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical printing and manual evaluation system with a computational software-based system. Determination methods execute algorithms on image data to automatically assess quality metrics, substituting physical processes with digital computations that are faster and more consistent.
3Ease of operation
If visual inspection is used for image evaluation, then simplicity is maintained, but automation level remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the evaluation system to perform self-assessment through automated determination methods. The computing device independently executes multiple evaluation algorithms, compares results, and generates conclusions without requiring human visual inspection, achieving high automation while maintaining operational simplicity through automated workflows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automated feedback loops where determination methods continuously evaluate image data and provide quantitative results. This automated feedback system replaces subjective visual inspection with objective computational assessments, enabling high-level automation while keeping the process simple through standardized evaluation protocols.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a plurality of evaluation units configured to evaluate an image generated by a printer simulator, a setting unit configured to receive settings of one or more evaluation units of the plurality of evaluation units from a user, the settings to be used for evaluation of the image, a control unit configured to cause the one or more evaluation units for which the settings are received to evaluate the image, and a display control unit configured to display evaluation results obtained by the one or more evaluation units.