Printing Apparatus Ink Aggregation Control via Dynamic Mask Modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional printing apparatuses for nail designs face challenges in achieving consistent and high-quality printing, particularly in managing printing density and preventing ink aggregation, especially at high printing densities.

Innovation Solution

The printing apparatus employs a print head with multiple nozzles that eject a liquid agent for printing, and a processor that controls the ejection operation based on ejection specification data. The processor switches between two modes - a common mask mode and an individual mask mode - depending on the set printing density to optimize ink ejection and prevent aggregation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If printing density is increased to achieve better coverage and color saturation, then printing quality is improved, but ink aggregation occurs causing poor finish quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting qualityVSAvoidink aggregation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the print head into multiple independent nozzle groups, each capable of being controlled separately. This allows the system to manage ink ejection from different nozzles independently, preventing aggregation by ensuring proper spacing and timing of ink deposition across the print target surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics through the processor's ability to dynamically switch between a first mode and a second mode based on printing density requirements. In the first mode, ink ejection is controlled to prevent aggregation at lower densities, while in the second mode, aggregation prevention mechanisms are enhanced for higher densities. This dynamic adaptation allows optimal printing quality across varying density requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a single mask mode is used for all printing densities, then device complexity is reduced, but printing quality varies at different densities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemask mode complexityVSAvoidprinting quality consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by implementing a dynamic mask mode selection mechanism that automatically switches between a first mask mode and a second mask mode based on the printing density. The processor determines which mode to use depending on the specific printing requirements, allowing optimal printing quality to be achieved across different density levels without requiring manual intervention or complex fixed architectures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the mask mode parameter according to printing density requirements. The system changes the operational parameters of the print head by switching between different mask modes, where each mode is optimized for specific density ranges. This parameter adaptation enables consistent high-quality printing whether the requirement is for low-density delicate patterns or high-density saturated areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Object-affected harmful factors

If ink ejection is controlled to prevent aggregation, then finish quality is improved, but printing density coverage may be insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefinish qualityVSAvoidink coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the ink ejection control into multiple independent nozzle groups that can be managed separately. This allows the system to optimize ink distribution by controlling which nozzles are activated and their ejection timing, ensuring sufficient coverage while maintaining proper spacing to prevent aggregation. The segmented approach enables fine-grained control over ink placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the mask mode parameter based on printing density requirements. When high coverage is needed, the system switches to a mode that activates more nozzles or increases ejection frequency, while still maintaining aggregation prevention through the mask pattern. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows the system to adapt ink coverage to match the specific printing requirements without compromising finish quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution enables the printing apparatus to achieve consistent and high-quality nail designs across various printing densities, preventing ink aggregation and ensuring a smooth finish, thereby enhancing the overall printing process.

Implementation Method 1

a print head that includes a plurality of nozzles ejecting a liquid agent performs printing on a print target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLiquid ejection:

Data Source

PatentUS12291028B2Printing apparatus, printing control method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium
Publication Date: 2025.05.06 CASIO COMPUTER CO LTD
  • US12291028B2 patent drawing
  • US12291028B2 patent drawing
  • US12291028B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A printing apparatus includes: a print head that includes a plurality of nozzles ejecting an ink and performs printing on a print target; and at least one processor that controls an ejection operation of the print head based on ejection specification data defining ejection of the ink. At least a “first mode” and a “second mode” are provided with respect to the application of the ejection specification data, and the processor switches between the “first mode” and the “second mode” based on a set printing density.