Printing System With Actual-Size Virtual Preview to Reduce Sheet Waste
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems require users to physically print images to check their size and layout, leading to unnecessary sheet waste when adjustments are needed.
Innovation Solution
A printing system that includes a reception unit for user input, a generation unit for virtual objects based on print settings, and a display unit for superimposing these objects on captured video images, allowing users to preview the actual size and layout without physical printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a preview image is displayed on a display unit to check print target before printing, then the user can check the image, but the image is not displayed in actual size making it difficult to verify size and layout
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the print output that is superimposed on the captured image of the actual print environment. This virtual copy maintains the actual dimensions and layout of the printed material, allowing users to verify size and layout accuracy without physical printing. The virtual object is generated based on print settings and target image data, then displayed at its true-to-life scale on the display unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from displaying a two-dimensional scaled preview to creating a three-dimensional virtual object that can be viewed in the context of the actual print environment. By capturing the physical environment with an image sensor and superimposing the virtual print output onto it, the system adds spatial dimensionality, allowing users to perceive the actual size and layout in the intended display space.
2Measurement precision
If the user physically prints the image to check size and layout, then accurate verification is possible, but sheets are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual replica of the printed output that accurately represents the size, layout, and appearance of the actual print. This virtual copy is superimposed on the captured image of the print environment, enabling users to verify dimensions and layout without consuming physical sheets. The virtual object is generated from print settings and target image data, providing a sheet-free verification method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual object as an intermediary between the digital print data and the physical print environment. This virtual intermediary allows users to assess the fit and appearance of printed materials in the intended environment without actual printing. The virtual object mediates the verification process, eliminating the need for physical test prints and reducing sheet waste.
3Measurement precision
If a virtual object is generated and displayed in superimposed manner on captured video image, then actual size preview is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the image forming apparatus multi-functional by integrating both printing capabilities and virtual preview display functions into a single device. The display unit serves dual purposes: showing traditional preview images and displaying the new virtual superimposed preview. The control unit coordinates multiple functions including image capture, virtual object generation, and superimposed display, reducing the need for separate dedicated devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the virtual preview generation, image capture, and display functions into an integrated workflow. The control unit combines the target image data and print settings to generate the virtual object, then superimposes it on the captured environment image for display. This merging of functions streamlines the verification process while managing system complexity through unified control.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing system includes a reception unit configured to receive a print setting from a user, a generation unit configured to generate a virtual object based on the received print setting and print target image data, a display unit configured to display the generated virtual object in a superimposed manner on a video image obtained by image capturing, and a control unit configured to transmit the print setting and the print target image data to a printing apparatus and cause the printing apparatus to perform printing based on the print setting and the print target image data. The display unit displays the virtual object in actual size based on the video image and sheet size information included in the print setting.