Tape Printer Image Processing via Localized Pattern Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tape printing systems require complex data communication between computers and tape printers to perform image processing based on tape type and printer characteristics, leading to complicated operations and inability to handle variations in printer models and tape types effectively.
Innovation Solution
A tape printing system where a control apparatus generates and transmits character strings or image data to a tape printer, which includes a processing pattern storage section to determine the tape type and perform specific image processing, such as flipping and margin addition, based on pre-stored patterns, allowing for localized processing without needing data transmission from the printer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If image processing is performed in the computer by transmitting tape type information and margin settings through data communication, then image processing can be performed according to tape type, but the operation becomes complicated and cannot handle variations in different tape printer models
Solution Approach 1:
The tape printer performs image processing autonomously based on tape type detection without requiring complex data communication with the computer. The printer itself determines the tape type and applies appropriate processing patterns, making the system self-sufficient and simplifying operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Processing patterns for different tape types are pre-stored in the tape printer. When a tape is loaded, the corresponding processing pattern is automatically selected and applied without requiring real-time communication or manual configuration, enabling quick adaptation to different tape types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If image processing is performed by the computer considering variations in tape printer characteristics, then processing can be adapted to different models, but it is impossible to perform image processing according to the characteristics of each tape printer
Solution Approach 1:
The tape printer autonomously determines its own characteristics and applies appropriate processing patterns without relying on the computer to transmit this information. This ensures that printer-specific characteristics are always accurately reflected in the image processing.
Solution Approach 2:
Processing patterns specific to each printer model and tape type combination are pre-stored in the tape printer's memory. This ensures that the printer can always access and apply the correct processing parameters for its specific characteristics without losing information during data transmission.
3Manufacturing precision
If data communication is performed between computer and tape printer for margin setting, then margin can be adjusted according to tape characteristics, but data transmission is required which complicates the system
Solution Approach 1:
Margin settings and other processing parameters are pre-configured in the tape printer based on tape characteristics. When a tape is loaded, the printer automatically selects the appropriate pre-stored margin settings without requiring data transmission from the computer, maintaining precision while simplifying the system.
Data Source
AI summary
A tape printing system includes a control apparatus and a tape printer, wherein the control apparatus includes an image data generating section generating character strings and/or image data, and an image data transmitting section transmitting the generated character strings and/or image data to the tape printer, and the tape printer includes a processing pattern storing section storing a processing pattern for each tape type, the processing pattern of processing the character strings and/or image data to printing image data, a tape type determining section determining the tape type of a printing tape, an image data receiving section receiving the character strings and/or image data from the data transmitting section, a printing image data generating section generating printing image data by processing the received character strings and/or image data based on the processing pattern, and a tape printing section printing the generated printing image data on the printing tape.