Printing Apparatus Template-Based Variable Image Superimposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing label printing systems waste recording media when design changes are made, as fixed images are pre-printed on labels, leading to unnecessary label sheet replacement and inefficiency in printing variable images in relation to fixed images.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus and control system that stores fixed image data and associates it with templates, allowing for the superimposition and printing of variable images based on the aspect of the fixed image, without pre-printing the fixed image on the label sheet, ensuring appropriate positioning and preventing overlap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the fixed image is pre-printed on the label sheet, then the printing process is simplified, but the recording medium cannot be reused when design changes are made
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining template information (including fixed image data and positioning information) in the printing apparatus before actual printing. This allows the fixed image to be prepared in advance in digital form, while still enabling flexibility when design changes are needed, as the pre-prepared templates can be updated without wasting physical label sheets.
2Ease of operation
If the fixed image is pre-printed on the label sheet, then positioning is simplified, but waste of recording medium increases when design changes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by storing fixed image data in the printing apparatus memory and reproducing it during the printing process according to template information. Instead of physically pre-printing the fixed image on label sheets, the system creates a digital copy that can be reproduced as needed, eliminating waste when design changes are required.
3Productivity
If the variable image is printed without reference to the fixed image aspect, then printing speed is improved, but the visual relationship between images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces template information as an intermediary that connects the variable image data with the fixed image characteristics. The template contains positioning information that references the fixed image aspect, allowing the variable image to be printed at appropriate positions and orientations relative to the fixed image, thereby maintaining visual relationships while enabling efficient printing.
Data Source
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AI summary
A printing apparatus capable of continuously printing images on a recording medium, each of the images including a variable image of which an aspect is variable for each of the images to be continuously printed and a fixed image of which an aspect is the same for each of the images to be continuously printed, the printing apparatus includes a storage unit that associates and stores therein image data of the fixed image and a template having at least information about a position of printing an image, and a printing control unit that, when a control command which includes information for designating the template and instructs a printing of the variable image is input, superimposes the variable image and the fixed image associated with the designated template, on the basis of the template and print the superimposed image.