Recording Apparatus Ink Density Control via Internal Data Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional recording apparatuses require converting image data for different media types, leading to prolonged processing times due to dependence on PC performance and data size, making it inefficient to achieve multiple image density levels without additional data conversion.
Innovation Solution
A recording apparatus that allows for multiple image density levels using a single set of image data by adjusting the discharge of ink through a recording head with a nozzle array, employing a reciprocating mechanism and controlled voltage waveform to manage ink droplet placement and frequency, enabling effective image formation on various media types without additional data conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If PC or external device converts image data for different media types, then recording can be performed at different image density levels, but processing time becomes long depending on PC performance and data size
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the image data conversion function from the PC/external device and relocates it to the recording apparatus itself. The control unit within the recording apparatus performs the conversion of image data based on media type detection, eliminating the time-consuming external conversion process while maintaining the ability to record at different image density levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the image data input and the recording head. This control unit detects the media type and automatically converts the image data to appropriate density levels, serving as a mediator that resolves the conflict between maintaining versatility and reducing processing time.
2Manufacturing precision
If image data is converted for each media type to achieve desired image density, then recording quality is improved, but the process requires additional data conversion steps
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the media type detection function and the image data conversion function into a single integrated control unit within the recording apparatus. This combination eliminates the need for separate external conversion processes and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining precise control over image density levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The recording apparatus performs self-service by automatically detecting the media type and converting the image data internally without requiring external PC software or additional conversion devices. The control unit handles the entire process autonomously, simplifying the overall system architecture.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a recording apparatus (1) provided with a recording head (7) that includes a nozzle (N) and discharges liquid through the nozzle on the basis of image data, and when the recording head discharges the liquid onto a recorded medium (P) on the basis of pixel data constituting the image data and corresponding to any one of recording target pixels, the liquid is discharged such that the liquid landed on the recorded medium indicates any one of a plurality of image density levels. The recording apparatus configured in this manner makes it possible to perform recording at a plurality of image density levels on the basis of only a single set of image data.