Image Processing Apparatus for Superposed Ink Fixability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques do not provide a method to properly adjust the amount of preprocessing liquid when printing multiple images superposed on a medium, leading to inefficiencies in consumption and potential mixing of inks.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that converts image data into the appropriate amount of preprocessing liquid and ink type for each pixel, generating print data to minimize the total preprocessing liquid required for superposed images, by calculating the reduced amount needed for layered pixels based on individual layer amounts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If preprocessing liquid is applied on the medium before ejecting ink for each superposed image layer, then ink fixability is improved, but preprocessing liquid consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the preprocessing liquid application for multiple superposed image layers into a single integrated process. When multiple images are superposed on the same pixel location, the system merges the preprocessing liquid applications into one unified application rather than applying preprocessing liquid separately for each layer, thereby reducing total consumption while maintaining ink fixability for all superposed layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preprocessing liquid only where necessary - specifically, it identifies pixels where multiple image layers are superposed and applies preprocessing liquid only at those locations rather than uniformly across the entire medium. This partial action approach reduces overall preprocessing liquid consumption while ensuring adequate fixability at critical superposed pixel locations.
2Manufacturing precision
If preprocessing liquid is applied on the medium for each superposed image, then color-forming performance is improved, but the complexity of controlling liquid ejection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system calculates the superposition of multiple image layers and uses this information to determine the optimal preprocessing liquid application pattern. The control unit receives image data, calculates which pixels have superposed layers, and adjusts preprocessing liquid ejection accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes both color-forming performance and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculation of image layer superposition before the actual printing process. The control unit analyzes the image data in advance to identify pixels where multiple layers will be superposed, pre-determines the preprocessing liquid application pattern, and then executes the simplified control process during printing, reducing real-time control complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If preprocessing liquid is applied on the medium for superposed images, then ink spreading is restricted, but the total amount of liquid ejection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple preprocessing liquid application operations into a single unified application at superposed pixel locations. By combining the liquid ejection for multiple superposed image layers into one coordinated action, the system restricts ink spreading effectively while minimizing the total volume of preprocessing liquid ejected, avoiding redundant application at the same locations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces preprocessing liquid consumption while maintaining high ink fixability and color-forming performance by optimizing the amount applied for each pixel, especially when superposing images.
Implementation Method 1
The preprocessing liquid facilitates the color material in the ink to coagulate, and therefore the viscosity of the ink ejected onto the preprocessing liquid is increased.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus, configured to generate print data to be outputted to a printing apparatus that prints an image by ejecting preprocessing liquid and ink onto a medium, includes a color conversion unit that converts image data representing the image into an amount of the preprocessing liquid, and a type and an amount of the ink for printing the image, and a print data generation unit that generates the print data on a basis of the amount of the preprocessing liquid and the type and amount of the ink. The color conversion unit converts the image data such that, when the amount of the preprocessing liquid for printing one pixel of a first image on the medium is defined as a first preprocessing liquid amount, and the amount of the preprocessing liquid for printing one pixel of a second image on the medium is defined as a second preprocessing liquid amount, the amount of the preprocessing liquid for printing a first layered pixel, in which the one pixel of the second image is superposed on the one pixel of the first image, becomes less than a total of the first preprocessing liquid amount and the second preprocessing liquid amount.