Semi-Transparent Pattern Scaling with Multivaluing and Patterning Screen

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for scaling semi-transparent objects often result in image deterioration, particularly when using nearest neighbor or black pixel saving methods, which distort the pattern and degrade image quality.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus and method that performs multivaluing processing on semi-transparent patterns, followed by scaling and applying a patterning screen in rectangular units to maintain the shape and transparency of the pattern, using weighted averaging or pixel ratio calculations to prevent distortion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If nearest neighbor or black pixel saving method is used for scaling semi-transparent objects, then scaling operation is simple and fast, but image quality deteriorates and pattern distortion occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescaling operation speedVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing multivaluing processing on the semi-transparent pattern before scaling. This converts the binary pattern into a multivalued image with density information, allowing the pattern to maintain its integrity during subsequent scaling operations. The preliminary conversion prevents distortion by establishing a more robust representation that can withstand scaling transformations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter representation of the semi-transparent pattern from binary (on/off pixels only) to multivalued (including density information). This parameter change allows the pattern to preserve its visual characteristics during scaling, as the density values provide intermediate states that prevent the harsh transitions and distortion seen in binary scaling methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If conventional scaling methods are used on semi-transparent patterns, then processing is straightforward, but the shape and transparency of the original pattern are distorted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing simplicityVSAvoidpattern shape accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing multivaluing processing on the semi-transparent pattern before scaling. This converts the binary pattern into a multivalued image with density information, allowing the pattern to maintain its integrity during subsequent scaling operations. The preliminary conversion prevents distortion by establishing a more robust representation that can withstand scaling transformations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a patterning screen as an intermediary element during the scaling process. This screen is applied in rectangular units to the multivalued semi-transparent pattern, acting as a mediator that preserves the original pattern's shape and transparency characteristics while allowing scaling to occur. The screen provides a structured framework that guides the scaling operation to maintain fidelity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If multivaluing processing and patterning screen are applied to maintain pattern quality, then image quality is preserved, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the patterning screen application into rectangular units. Instead of applying the screen to the entire image at once, it processes the image in manageable rectangular segments. This segmentation reduces the computational complexity of each individual operation while maintaining the overall quality improvement, making the complex process more efficient and implementable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2894841B1Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2021.05.05 CANON KK
  • EP2894841B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2894841B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2894841B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes a receiving means configured to receive a pattern indicating positions of non-transparent pixels of a semi-transparent object; a multivaluing processing means configured to perform multivaluing processing on the received pattern; a scaling processing means configured to perform scaling processing on the multivalued pattern; and an applying means configured to apply a screen to the scaled pattern.