Raster Buffer Segmentation for Mixed Colorant Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current printing systems lack the capability to render multiple logical pages on a single sheet using different print colorant orders, as existing designs do not support the simultaneous printing of pages with varying colorant orders on the same surface.
Innovation Solution
The system generates separate raster buffers for each colorant order, merging raster data and marking untouched pixels as negative to allow for the printing of logical pages with different colorant orders on the same sheet, utilizing the Raster Image Processor (RIP) module to manage and print these buffers sequentially on the same side of the print media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple logical pages with different colorant orders are to be printed on the same sheet, then the adaptability and versatility of the printing system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for separate raster buffers and sequential printing processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the printing process by creating separate raster buffers for different colorant orders. Each buffer stores raster data for logical pages requiring a specific colorant sequence, allowing independent processing and printing of pages with different color requirements without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing and organizing raster data into separate buffers according to colorant order requirements before the actual printing process. This preparation includes identifying which logical pages need which colorant sequences and grouping them accordingly, so that the printing engine can execute sequentially without real-time decision complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate raster buffers are created for different colorant orders, then the manufacturing precision of color rendering is improved, but the productivity decreases due to sequential printing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by assigning different colorant orders to different regions (logical pages) on the same sheet based on their specific requirements. Each raster buffer maintains the precise colorant sequence needed for its associated logical pages, ensuring accurate color rendering for spot colors and special inks without compromising the overall printing quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing process uses periodic action by alternating between different raster buffers in a sequential manner. The system prints all logical pages requiring one colorant order, then switches to the next buffer for pages requiring a different order, creating a rhythmic printing pattern that maintains precision while managing productivity through structured alternation.
3Ease of operation
If logical pages are grouped by colorant order, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of time increases due to the sequential processing and repositioning of print media
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by creating a multi-functional raster buffer management structure that can handle any combination of colorant orders (e.g., CMYK+Spot, Spot+CMYK, different spot color sequences) using the same buffer organization principle. This universal approach simplifies operation as the same grouping logic applies regardless of the specific colorant combination required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copying by creating duplicate raster buffers for different colorant order groups, allowing the printing engine to work with complete sets of data for each colorant sequence without needing to reprocess or reposition media for color corrections, thereby reducing iterative adjustment time.
Data Source
AI summary
According to exemplary methods, a print job is received into a computerized device that includes a marking device. The print job specifies an imposition template defining multiple logical pages for a single sheet of print media according to an electronic document. The print job attributes also contain a first print colorant order and a different second print colorant order. Groups of logical pages are defined for each print colorant order, and buffers are created in which raster data associated with each group of logical pages are merged and untouched pixels are marked as negative pixels. The information from each buffer is printed on a single sheet of print media. Following printing of each buffer, the sheet of print media is returned to the marking device, so that information from the next buffer can be printed on the same side of the sheet of print media, using the marking device.