CN101491077B - Method of matching a digital printing press with the color characteristics of a plate-based press platform - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of managing the production of tickets in accordance with a ticket order submitted to a ticketing services bureau by a customer includes an optional step of producing a physical ticket proof for the customer prior to execution of the ticket order. Preferably, the physical ticket proof is generated using a plateless printing press, such as a digital printing press, but has the print characteristics of a particular plate-based press platform which is designated to execute the ticket order. A process for accurately matching the color characteristics of the digital printing press with the color characteristics of a plate-based press platform includes the steps of calibrating the plate-based press platform to meet a particular printing standard, creating an International Color Consortium (ICC) profile for the designated plate- based press platform, applying the ICC profile to the digital printing press, and managing the color formulation properties of the digital printing press.

Description

The method that digital printer and chromatic characteristic based on the print station of plate are complementary

Technical field

Relate generally to retail business of the present invention and relate more particularly to the ticket service in the retail business.

Background technology

Article in the commercial affairs are sent to buyer (for example retailer) from supplier (for example grantee of trade-mark or seller) through the multistep treatment that generally is called as the retail business supply chain in the prior art usually.Especially, with reference now to Fig. 1, shown the block diagram of simplification of a general version of retail business supply chain, the retail business supply chain is generally through reference marker 11 identifications.In the first step of supply chain 11, retailer 13 sends purchase order (promptly buying the instruction of product with certain price) purchase order to supplier 15 and sends as the step 1 by arrow 17 expressions.As response, supplier 15 indication manufacturers 19 (for example factory) are according to buying the specific products that instruction manufacturing is used to buy, as the indication step 1 by arrow 21 expressions.

In retail business, the article (and corresponding cartons) of commercial affairs are traditionally by a kind of or provide to pass on the relevant information about article more than the form of a kind of identification medium (also be called label here simply, ticket is signed or sign).For example, the article of clothes generally provide permanent sign, fabric sign or the woven fabric sign that can inform consumer manufacturer title and/or clean the situation such as indication of these article.As another example, the article of clothes generally provide removable price tag, and this price tag is designed to after purchase, be separated with article, and this removable price tag is informed the information such as price, size and style of consumer's article when selling.In another example, carton (or shipping container of other similar type) provides the bonding sign in back usually to show about the relevant transit information of carton and about the information of the article that wherein comprise etc.It should be understood that used term " label ", " ticket label " and " sign " can exchange to use and mean herein contains whole known forms of discerning medium.

Therefore, should be noted that the part as step 21, any ticket that supplier 15 can indicate manufacturer's 19 manufacturings to be used in combination with the article of being made is extraly signed, for example marking, price tag etc.(in present patent application, " manufacturing " and " production " that relate to label, sign or ticket label represented the printing and/or the coding of these media rather than the making of medium.)。Yet as understandable, the usually excessive so that product manufacturing industry of the production cost relevant with printing, classification, packing and the transportation of individual marker (for example manpower, equipment and facility) is difficult to bear.Therefore, many retail companys are usually to the ticketing service part or all of ticket service of expert's outsourcing one of which already.The Avery Dennison Corp of the Pasadena of California (pasadena) generally is regarded as reformer and the pioneer in the retail ticket service industry.The retail ticket service TICKET EXPRESS that is widely known by the people ^TMUse based on network ticketing system running to sign the efficient and the accuracy of production and management service by Avery Dennison Corp at present to promote ticket.

Therefore, if manufacturer 19 is inappropriate for assembling to reach the ticketing service requirement of purchase order, ticket service ticket service place 23 of specializing in the retail ticket service (the TICKET EXPRESS of Avery Dennison Corp for example that can selectively lead then ^TMRetail ticket service place).It should be understood that the ticket label request that proposes to ticket service place 23 is proposed by supplier 15 (in Fig. 1, being represented by arrow 25), manufacturer 19 (in Fig. 1, being represented by arrow 26-1) or retailer 13 (in Fig. 1, being represented by arrow 26-2) usually.

Receive the ticket request of purchase order, whole tickets that the attached printing center 26 of ticket service place 23 indications produces purchase order to be needed are signed, and ticket is signed and generated instruction generally by arrow 27 expressions.In this example, attached printing center 26 is positioned at manufacturer 19 places.Yet, be appreciated that printing center 26 can selectively be positioned at outside the manufacturer 19 Anywhere.

Traditionally, the ticket label for example use the commercial printer (for example offset machine, flexographic machine etc.) based on plate and produce in a large number at attached printing center 26.Especially; Use one or (promptly based on the commercial printer of plate more than an imaging plate; The plate that has protruding image on its outer surface) to sign in the substrate with one deck or more than the ticket that the colored ink of one deck is sent to specific pattern, wherein each imaging plate is usually designed to and uses specific color (for example blue-green, reddish violet, yellow and black).Together, various imaging plates are used for being sent to one deck or more than the colored ink of one deck with certain mode that ticket is signed in the substrate so that the ticket that accurately appears after the printing of expectation is signed.Be widely used though be widely known by the people and in the art, require in a plurality of imaging plates each all during the preprinted production stage, to be produced based on the commercial printer of plate, this is not only costliness but also consuming time in essence.Therefore, the commercial printer based on plate mainly is designed to combine large-scale relatively flying print to move and uses and provide thus limited ticket label changeability.

In case printing, the ticket of being made is signed the packing/transportation warehouse that is directed to manufacturer 19 afterwards, and here ticket is signed product or the product carton that is adhered to sale.At this moment, manufacturer 19 carries out its packing of product processing.

Be transported to transportation consolidator 29 with transportation from making manufacturer 19 after the packed article, this transports as the step 1 by arrow 31 expressions.Be obedient to purchase order, after the consolidator 29 with the most effectively and the mode that is dominant economically transport article after the encapsulation to retailer's distributing center 33 (for example retailer warehouse) of appointment, as generally representing by the arrow among Fig. 1 35.Be transferred to retailer 13 from distributing center 33 after the article after the encapsulation, transmitting step is generally by reference marker 37 expressions.In this stage, if necessary, be encapsulated in that distributing center 33 is opened and desired specific products can be transmitted (the for example part of littler encapsulation).In case receive at retailer 13 places, then showed to sell after the product, accomplish the circulation of closed loop supply chain thus.

As stated, TICKET EXPRESS ^TMBe that the based on network ticketing system of known use is signed production and the efficient of management service and retail ticket service place of accuracy to promote ticket.Though known and widely-used in commercial affairs, the most traditional based on network retail ticket service has significant disadvantage.

Especially, the most traditional based on network retail ticket service only provides the ticket of general meaning to sign proof (promptly wherein the information of the variation of uncombined ticket order) to the client before printing.Therefore, client can not browse to the abundant expression that the ticket that produces as the part of order signs and can only browse to similarly general diagram in the clauses and subclauses of product classification.Endorse under the situation of the accurate expression that can not browse to the ticket label before brush is handled at ticket, it is dissatisfied to the product of being accomplished that client possibly become, and conversely, possibly print whole ticket order again.Because use the reprinting of ticket order based on the printing machine of plate to require one group of new imaging plate product, so ticket is signed and is reprinted the huge finance expenditure of representative and avoided to greatest extent thus.

Therefore, the ticket that the ticket that the applicant recognizes provides accurate expression to be generated through the client to based on network retail ticket service is signed is signed proof, can obtain special interests.Therefore, client can endorse at the completion ticket and participate in the design of ticket label before brush is handled energetically, and this is a main purpose of the present invention.

Summary of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide a kind of new and improved method, this method is used for managing ticket according to the ticket order that is submitted to ticket service place by client and signs product.

Another object of the present invention provides a kind of method of the above-mentioned type, and this method allows carrying out the ticket label proof that ticket order forward direction client produces physics.

Another object of the present invention provides a kind of method of the above-mentioned type, and wherein the ticket of physics is signed the printing characteristic that proof has the specific printing machine based on plate that is used to carry out ticket order.

Another object of the present invention provides a kind of method of the above-mentioned type, and wherein the ticket of physics is signed proof and for example used no plate printing machine generations such as digital printer.

A further object of the present invention provides a kind of method of the above-mentioned type, and wherein the ticket of physics label proof generates through the no plate printing machine of accurate coupling based on the printing characteristic (for example color) of the printing machine of plate.

Therefore; The method of a kind of digital printer coupling based on the chromatic characteristic of the print station of plate is provided; Said method comprising the steps of: (a) calibration based on the print station of plate to reach specific printing standard; (b) produce international color consortium (ICC) profile be used for appointment, (c) the ICC profile is applied to digital printer, and (d) color of administering digital printing machine forms character based on the print station of plate.

Various other feature and advantage will appear in the following explanation.In explanation, will a part of accompanying drawing be described with reference to forming, and these accompanying drawings realize that with explanation the form of embodiments of the invention illustrates.Embodiment incites somebody to action explanation fully at length so that those skilled in the art realize the present invention, and it is understandable that, can use other embodiment and can under the situation that does not deviate from scope of the present invention, make structural change.Therefore the detailed description below is not as restriction, and scope of the present invention is limited through accompanying claims best.

Description of drawings

In the accompanying drawings, same reference numbers is represented same parts: Fig. 1 is the block diagram of simplification of the retail business supply chain of prior art; Fig. 2 is the sketch map of the innovative system signed of the generation ticket that combines the retail business supply chain to use, and this system constructs according to theory of the present invention; Fig. 3 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, and how to capture ticket order be useful to this sketch map to understanding ticketing system of the present invention; Fig. 4 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, this sketch map to understand how in ticketing system of the present invention, to produce ticket sign proof and by customer interaction to browse be useful; Fig. 5 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, this sketch map to how to understand after to use approved ticket label proof to carry out ticket order through ticketing system of the present invention be useful; Fig. 6 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, and how to be released to print ticketing system of the present invention be useful to this sketch map to understanding ticket order; Fig. 7 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, and to brush d/d work order be useful to this sketch map to how in press understanding koan; Fig. 8 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, and how to handle financial sffairs paper through ticketing system of the present invention be useful to this sketch map to understanding; Fig. 9 is the sketch map of module of the selection of the system shown in Fig. 2, and this sketch map adheres to the label that produces commercial article and is useful according to the instruction encapsulation of client's appointment how understanding; Figure 10 describes the flow chart that the ticket that is provided for the retail business supply chain through ticketing system shown in Figure 2 is signed the processing of management service; Figure 11 is to use ticket on the screen of process for producing shown in Figure 10 to sign the screen display of an example of proof; Various types of front plan view that Figure 12 (a)-(c) is to use the physics ticket of process for producing shown in Figure 10 to sign; Figure 13 is a flow chart of describing the modification of the processing shown in Figure 10, and said modification comprises that producing the digital printed ticket of physics signs proof to confirm the selection with reference to proof on the tentatively approved screen among Figure 13; Figure 14 describes the flow chart that generates the processing originally of ticket signed-off sample with reference to proof on the tentatively approved screen among Figure 13 through using; Figure 15 is the flow chart of more specifically describing with reference to the calibration process of Figure 14; Figure 16 more specifically describes the flow chart of handling with reference to the ICC profile of Figure 14; Figure 17 is that the color of more specifically describing with reference to Figure 14 forms the flow chart of handling; And Figure 18 more specifically describes through using the ticket of printing with reference to the appointment of Figure 14 to sign the flow chart of the processing of proof.

Embodiment

With reference now to Fig. 2,, show the detailed block diagram of use in the system of the production of the ticket label of the supply chain that is used for commercial article, ticketing system generally is expressed as reference marker 111.

Ticketing system 111 comprises ticket service place 113, and this ticket service place 113 links with at least one printing center 115 via internet 117 (or any other similar communication network) electronically.Like following detailed description, ticket service place 113 be designed to receive ticket order (promptly being used to make the order that the ticket of client's design is signed) and, conversely, manage the production that said ticket is signed according to ticket order.

Should be noted that ticketing system 111 to combine to adhere to the manufacturing that the ticket of commercial article signs here and be described.Yet, should be noted that the ticket that ticketing system 111 is not limited to adhere to commercial article signs the management of producing.But, should be appreciated that ticketing system 111 can combine not deviate from the management of production of project of any printing of spirit of the present invention.

Should be appreciated that the term of employed coupling system 111 " ticket label " means contains the identification medium that provides any known of printed material form.Especially; System 111 be designed in the example of following two kinds of identification media any one use: the attribute of a configuration that (1) has a relative standard is (for example; Font type, font size, printed material composing etc.) the identification medium; For example conventional price tickets and marking, and (2) have the identification medium of unique relatively attribute of a configuration, for example fabric sign or allow client to realize the medium of other similar type of specific project design feature therein.

About first example of identification medium, be appreciated that system 111 impels client alternatively to revise with ticket and signs the attribute on the relevant nonformat, for example size, style, price, description code, the country of origin etc.Yet client can not alternatively revise the stylistic attribute of signing about ticket, for example font type and/or font size, and these sign types (for example traditional price tickets) to specific ticket usually is " appointment ".

Second example about the identification medium; Be appreciated that system 111 impels client alternatively to revise with ticket and signs relevant most or whole attributes; Comprise the stylistic attribute signed about ticket etc., for example font characteristic (for example font, type, font size, runic/italic/underscore, engineer's scale etc.) and set type (for example the blank amount of rotation, margin, zone location etc.).

Should also be noted that ticketing system 111 is expressed as and comprises single printing center 115 just to the purpose of simplifying here.In fact, should be appreciated that ticketing system 111 is preferably and comprises a plurality of printings center 115, wherein each printing center 115 can provide the printing performance of relative broad range.For example, each printing center 115 is preferably following performances is provided at least: digital printed performance, hot stamping brush performance, flexographic performance and lithographic performance.Like this, ticket service place 113 can select suitable printing center 115 based on the geographical distribution of print order and carry out print order (promptly orientating as near manufacturer 19 through printing center 115), will describe as following.The selection at the printing center 115 of carrying out print order it is also conceivable that the printing performance at different printing center.

Ticket service place 113 is global ticket order management systems, and therefore, also is called global order herein with being simplified and catches application (GOCA).GOCA 113 comprises a plurality of modules of carrying out its various functions, and each module comprises that execution can be from a series of processes of the system level function of needed operation core dynamic load and unloading.Preferably, GOCA 113 is designed to have Open architecture to allow extra on demand interpolation, removal and/or to replace various independently modules.

Especially, GOCA 113 comprises commercial module 119, form management module 121, digital asset management module 123, order management module 125, optimal management module 127, bulk management module 129, makes module 131, storehouse management module 133 and fiscal module 135.The details of each module will further specify following.

Commercial affairs module 119 is preferably through International Business Machine (IBM) company, WebSphere ^TMBusiness server operation and be responsible for comprising to supply chain client and internal user (for example ticket service place office worker's customer service) generator to connect GOCA 113.With this capacity, commercial module 119 is used as the e-commerce storefront of ticket service place 113 effectively.Should be noted that commercial module 119 preferably is designed to allow the fast development of new software and is configured to promote order processing and produces can be by the StoreFront of user's appointment of customization.

The Java scheme operation that the 121 preferred uses of form management module are traditional, this traditional Java scheme is used from printed netpage (PFTW) technology.Form management module 121 is responsible for comprising management design, composing and the editor etc. of the variable information (and relation of variable information and preprinted information) about ticket order.Usually the example of signing the variable information that finds at ticket comprises pricing information, size information, style information and about having adhered to the cognizance code of the product that ticket signs.Like following further explanation; Form management module 121 is responsible for producing based on network proof; This proof (1) can alternatively be browsed and revised by the client; (2) reflection is used for the specific print characteristics of target printer of printing work exactly, and (3) show the relation between static data and the variable data, and (4) are duplicated the image that the ticket of completion is signed exactly; This ticket is signed the diagram and other standing key elements that comprises preprinted, and all these characteristics are as main novel features of the present invention.

Digital asset management module 123 is preferably moved through the based on network enterprise application that is suitable for digital asset management, parts 3.0 program groups of for example exchange numeral (InterchangeDigital).Digital asset management module 123 is in charge of the common label diagram (the for example art work, label design etc.) that finds in the front of label etc.

The upgradeable backstage ecommerce basic scheme operation of order management module 125 preferred uses; This upgradeable backstage ecommerce infrastructure scheme provides and can make much of and real-time flexibly order management, for example the PureCommerce software of Yantra company.Order management module 125 is responsible for cura generalis that comprises the ticket order that receives through commercial module 119 etc.

Optimal management module 127 is preferably traditional scheme based on Java, and this scheme is responsible for developing the composing of the space efficiency the highest (being optimization) of the label in the substrate (for example paper) that will print the ticket label.

Bulk management module 129 is preferably to be responsible for through at product unification in service (promptly quantitative) similar order and at the scheduling Software tool of the production of selected manufacturing location optimization ticket label etc.

Manufacturing module 131 is preferably the business logic software group (for example SyteLine) of the print plan operation of being responsible for GOCA 111 etc., and this will be in following detailed description.

Storehouse management module 133 is preferably software application, and it is responsible for comprising and is transported to the management etc. of warehouse manufacturer 19 with making good label, and conversely, said label adheres on the relative product and according to the packaging directive encapsulation of appointment.

Fiscal module 135 is responsible for about the dispatch list of ticket order and the management of relevant financial sffairs paper etc., and module 135 can be popular software (PeopleSoft) financial system.

115 expressions of printing center can be produced the available facility that ticket is signed.Printing center 115 comprises print management module 137, and this print management module 137 is preferably is in charge of the traditional scheme that one or more printers 139 etc. of the actual print that ticket signs are responsible in print stream and management.Though printing center 115 has been merely the purpose of simplifying and has been expressed as single printer 139 herein; But be appreciated that; Each printing center 115 is preferably provides a plurality of different printer types; For example thermal printer, laser printer, flexographic printer, lithographic printing printer and/or digital printer, each printer all has unique print characteristics.Should be noted that if flexographic and/or lithographic printing have been participated in printing center 115, then print center 115 and can comprise the preprinted 141 that is used to generate the printing machine plate extraly.

Like following detailed description, system 111 is designed to take each task of following expression: Order is caught (being business management)Relate to a kind of device, the client system installs with GOCA 113 bridge joints through this or links.As stated, commercial module 119 is as the user interface (inside and outside) of ticket order seizure and main " StoreFront " therefore issued as based on network order.Like what clearly illustrate among Fig. 3, the processing that captures ticket order may further comprise the steps: (1) supply chain client (for example retailer 13, supplier 15 etc.) is to ticket service place 113 issue ticket orders.Client can directly issue ticket order to GOCA 113 through commercial module 119 (promptly through the StoreFront based on the internet), and the sale classification or the website that are stored in the client's appointment in the commercial module 119 thus are used to promote the order release processing.As selection, client can issue ticket order electronically through electronic data interchange (EDI).Select as another kind, client can issue ticket order to the customer service representative of ticket service place 113 through phone or fax.Conversely, the customer service representative is keyed in GOCA 113 through commercial module 119 with the ticket order artificially.(2) in case ticket order is accepted the information in the then commercial module 119 standardization ticket orders.(3) send to order management module 125 from commercial module 119 after the standardized ticket order, conversely, suppose all the other tasks of order management module 125 management ticket orders, like following detailed explanation.(4) the constant information (for example client's title, quantity on order etc.) about ticket order sends it back commercial module 119 from order management module 125.Similarly, about the variable domain information of ticket order price, size and the style information of commercial article (for example about) at first by 121 identifications of form management module.Key in if this information is artificial order, then show input through commercial module 119.Catch the variable data of keying in by the user after the commercial affairs module 119.Carry out after the affirmations on variable data information and the variable information of renewal is sent out back commercial module 119 through form management module 121.

Commercial affairs module 119 is for having the supply chain participant (for example retailer 13, supplier 15 etc.) who is authorized to provides cryptoguard based on the system 111 of role access safety.A useful characteristic of the present invention is because whole as described above ticket order information is sent to commercial module 119, so the supply chain participant who is authorized to can " arouse " or browse about issue the correlative detail of order through " StoreFront " of commercial module 119-GOCA 113.

Ticket is signed proof (being form management)Relate to a kind of device, through this device, client can browse electronic ticket and sign the proof file before placing an order, and if desired, direct modification is about any variable information of this proof file.Like this, be appreciated that for client provide mutual, based on the label proof system of dynamic network, allow the design of client's cooperative tags thus, this also is client's high expectations.As having shown the most clearly among Fig. 4 that ticket signs processing that proof produced, browses and if desired, revised through following steps by client: (1) form management module 121 is used its tickets to sign bunker and from ticket order, is discerned variable and constant information.Extract the constant label information of ticket order after the form management module 121.The example of constant label information can comprise the standardized images (diagram/art work of for example being stored) of ticket label and the general description (for example size, type etc.) of label.(2) retrieve variable information after the form management module 121 about ticket order.The example of the variable information of being collected by form management module 121 comprises the nonformat attribute of ticket order, for example price, size, SKU and/or about the information of transporting of this ticket order.Form management module 121 also retrieve help text, time limit of payment and about other information (for example, length of field, minimum/maximum character and number list) of ticket order and, conversely said data are provided to commercial module 119 so that promote order to catch.In addition, form management module 121 provides to be confirmed and classified inquiry, and carries out style and position attribution.(3) the variable use to produce the searchable ticket of network by form management module 121 with fixed information signed image, and this ticket is signed image can be through commercial module 119 by client's verification.Should be noted that ticket label image is provided on the active screen, therefore allows client to revise fast.Like this, be appreciated that form management module 121 provides automatic network printing (PFTW) ability to GOCA 113, the client who is positioned at global anywhere thus can use dynamically, the proof screen design ticket of network-enabled is signed.When (4) pawn ticket label proof is confirmed through commercial module 119 by the client, sign information about the whole variable ticket of said order and send to order management module 125 from form management module 121.

Be appreciated that physics ticket label proof (being ticket signed-off sample basis) can be sent to client to browse, if necessary.

System 111 allows the variable information of drawing image as specific ticket order.System 111 allows client alternatively to replace and is provided at the image on the ticket label proof.The information of being keyed in by client can the Direct Recognition image (for example through image file number) or indirect identification image (promptly wherein system responses in other variable informations that provided by client and based on the generation of the rule in the form management module 121 drawing image).

As first example, the change of the style numbering of identification footwear makes that drawing the product image becomes golf shoes from high-heeled shoes.

As second example, " color of tolerance " color element can be as the variable information of specific ticket order.For example, horizontal vitta is provided at usually that the price ticket is signed and as the sign of dimension of object, wherein each size is represented by the specific color that uses industrial color standard.For example, industrial color standard can distribute Pantone matching system (PMS) color 1375C to undersize item, distributes the yellow C of PMS color to medium-sized project, and distribution PMS color 355C is to mega project and distribute PMS 300C to the ultra-large type project.The color that is appreciated that vitta is used to indicate specific dimensions, and this specific dimensions is not limited to any representative but can changes based on different industrial color standard.

Should be noted that present retailer of encouragement of dress ornament industry and manufacturer use industrial standard to the color in the clothing labels of record dress ornament size.Use " color of tolerance " vitta, client can be through signing the object that the specific vitta in location finds specific dimensions (promptly no matter retailer or goods marks) at ticket.

Like this, should be appreciated that, can be used as the part input (for example through using simple digital or letter representation) of ticket order about the dimension information of article.Conversely, form management module 121 converts this dimension information into and is provided at suitable " color of tolerance " vitta that ticket is signed (and the ticket that finally is provided at printing is signed) on the proof, and this is high expectations.

First example and second example of medium discerned in said variable drawing image ability support, and the style attribute in first example is height-limited, and the client in second example is presented the bigger style degree of freedom.

Order managementRelate to a kind of device, through this device, ticket order is signed production by ticket.As from Fig. 5, illustrating the most clearly, sign the processing of producing through the ticket of ticket order processing and may further comprise the steps: (1) has been confirmed ticket label proof by the way, and ticket order is discharged into from order management module 125 and makes module 131 to be used for print plan.Be described below, make the processing that module 131 is checked printing (promptly filling) ticket order conversely.Simultaneously, making module 131 provides the frequency on the unsettled ticket order state to upgrade to order management module 125.(2) be discharged into fiscal module 135 so that management about the financial information of ticket order (odd numbers of for example delivering, purchase order number) from order management module 125.(3) like following further detailed description, the sequence information (for example project, client, transport and/or the purchase order data) that is used for mark and packing purpose is discharged into storehouse management module 133 from order management module 125.As the response to this, storehouse management module 133 is managed to have the ticket label is adhered to its corresponding commodity, packs the product with label and produce the senior processing of transporting notice (ASN) about this product.After the storehouse management module 133 senior notice (ASN) information of transporting is discharged back order management module 125.

Manufacturing managementRelate to a kind of device, through this device, ticket order is released with printing.Like the clearest and the most definite demonstration in Fig. 2 and 6; Processing through this device; Ticket order is released with printing and may further comprise the steps: (1) as stated; Order management module 125 discharges ticket orders to making module 131 handling, ticket order, and it comprises the part at least in the following information: item number, client number and about the order number of this ticket order.(2) bulk management module 129 produces the printing work order, and this order is released to form management module 121 conversely to produce detailed concrete print stream.As understandable, produce specific print stream so that more effectively present printing treatment and more practice thrift cost thus.Be discharged into print management module 137 through form management module 121 after the print stream.(3) make module 131 and discharge financial information about the printing work order extraly to fiscal module 135.The information that is released to fiscal module 135 comprises purchase order, labor cost, valuation of inventory (unprocessed, WIP) etc.Conversely, fiscal module 135 sends it back approved purchase order and makes module 131.(4) make module 131 and discharge stock information extraly to using stock information to be used for the storehouse management module 133 of storehouse management purpose.(5) during actual print is handled (like following detailed description), the state of printing work receives from print management module 137 through order management module 125.Like this, order management module 125 can be managed the state of the print order of release effectively.

Print managementRelate to a kind of device, through this device, the in press heart 115 printings of d/d ticket order.Should be noted that through print management is handled from above-mentioned manufacturing management and handle disconnection, thereby printing treatment can be made printing equipment easily added, to remove and/or to replace by standardization under the situation that does not jeopardize any processing.In fact, a plurality of printing center 115 (each all has a plurality of different printer, for example numeral, lithographic printing, flexographic and/or thermal printer) can be connected with GOCA 113 so that the printing capability of relative broad range to be provided on multiple diverse geographic location widely.Like the clearest and the most definite demonstration in Fig. 2 and 7; The processing that printing work is carried out may further comprise the steps: (1) as stated, the printing work order that has specified the concrete print stream that will be performed is discharged into print management module 137 from form management module 121 via internet 117 or other similar networks.(2) conversely, the release of print management module 137 management printing work orders.Especially, a plurality of type of printer and the release printing on-screen data in the 137 inspection printing screen formations of print management module flows to available printerfacing.Printerfacing can comprise one or more in the following things: (a) printer software; (b) preprinted software; And (c) printer guide.In addition, if printer 139 uses printed panel, then print management module 137 discharges the preprinted software that printing flows to the generation of management printed panel at preprinted machine 141 places.(3) print management module 137 provides the periodic status information about the printing work order that discharges to order management module 125 extraly.

Financial managementRelate to a kind of device,, be processed about the financial documentation of ticket order through this device.As from Fig. 8, being clear that, the process of being handled by financial sffairs paper may further comprise the steps: (1) is discharged into fiscal module 135 so that management about the financial information (for example dispatch list, purchase order etc.) of ticket order from order management module 125 as stated.(2) in addition, make module 131 and discharge financial information about work order to fiscal module 135.The information type that is discharged into fiscal module 135 comprises purchase order information, labor cost, valuation of inventory (unprocessed, WIP) etc.Based on receiving this information, fiscal module 135 will be checked and approved purchase order and send it back manufacturing module 131.(3) sign production when the ticket that is used for ticket order and accomplish, storehouse management module 133 provides the purchase order information of signing about ticket, for example purchase order receipt and valuation of inventory (FG) to fiscal module 135.[0054] Storehouse managementRelate to the management of processing, in this was handled, the label of generation was adhered to product and is encapsulated according to the packaging directive of client's appointment afterwards.As showing the most clearly among Fig. 9; Storehouse management module 133 control packing and the processing of transporting the article with label may further comprise the steps: (1) is discharged into storehouse management module 133 with the information about ticket order that is used to pack and transport purpose (for example packaging directive, item recognition, client's title and transport/purchase order information) from order management module 125 as stated.In addition, make module 131 and discharge the FG stock information to storehouse management module 133.(2) through receiving aforementioned information from order management module 125 and manufacturing module 131, storehouse management module 133 management processing are handled through this, and the ticket that manufacturing is good is signed and adhered to object correlation.In addition, storehouse management module 133 is according to packing and transport the packing of the labeled object of instruction checking and transport.When the packing processing was accomplished at manufacturer 19 places, storehouse management module 133 discharged back order management module 125 with the senior notice (ASN) of transporting.(3) in addition, 133 releases of storehouse management module are arrived fiscal module 135 about the financial information (for example purchase order receipt, valuation of inventory (FG)) of pack and the object that transports.

StorageRelate to a kind of device, through this device, relevant ticket order information is gathered in globally accessible database 143.Especially, as from Fig. 2, showing the most clearly, the integrated frame module 145 of standard is collected data from GOCA 113 closely in real time.In addition, the integrated frame module 145 of standard is designed to receive data from any other attached ticketing systems.Pointed another kind of mode does; Integrated framework module 145 is used for collecting data from GOCA 113 and the ticket service system that leaves over arbitrarily (be GOCA 113 before system); So that produce singlely, comprehensively and the database 143 that comprises entirely, this is high expectations.

Integrated framework module 145 is based on the structure (set of the service that promptly communicates with one another and be essentially self-contained) of service orientation and based on commercial processes management (i.e. one group of activity, the tissue of this activity can be carried out its commercial processes of optimization or it is adjusted to new tissue need).Preferably, integrated framework module 145 is in the form of Yantra service definition framework.

Integrated framework module 145 when data collection with its standardization, and conversely, with the data in real time after the standardization be stored in the database 143.But database 143 is preferably and comprises operating data storage (ODS); ODS be memory time the sensitive operation data database by the interim or middle database of fast and effectively visit (data that for example in 30-60 days recently, receive); And data warehouse, data warehouse is the long-term database (data that promptly receive in the period of several) of store historical data.

The visual module 147 in the whole world is the based on network application that are connected to database 143, and global visual module 147 is used for organizing business information through unique user interface (i.e. " single signature ") for the participant of supply chain.Like this, global visual module 147 provides the global access to relative commercial information (sequence information/state, stock, sales volume etc.) to the individual who is authorized to.The visual module 147 preferred use WebSphere doors (Portal) in the whole world provide and window are provided to complete different information system, for example PeopleSoft and Yantra.

Whole world report module 149 is the similar based on network application that are connected to database 143.Report module 149 in the whole world is preferably by Hyperion Performance Suite and provides and make the report of following type can be used to browse via internet 117: (i) sales data (through product and client); (ii) inventory data; (iii) service standard; (iv) earning rate information (through product and client); (v) data model; (vi) analyze report; (vii) data market " building "; And (viii) credit management. The general introduction of the overall ticket order management service that provides by GOCA 113

With reference now to Figure 10,, shown and described the flow chart of handling, handle through this, GOCA 113 is provided for the ticket of retail business supply chain and signs management service, and said processing is generally by reference marker 211 expressions.Like following detailed description; Handling 211 clients to the retail business supply chain provides (1) mutual client's ticket to sign proof/design; (2) global visual ticket order information, and the achromaticity printer management of (3) variable ticket label data, each aforementioned characteristic is all as novel features of the present invention.

Handle 211 and when the ticket order that is sent by client is captured GOCA 113 through based on network StoreFront by electronics, start (starting module 119), said order is caught as the step 1 by reference marker 213 expressions.Should be noted that order is preferably by starting module 119 receives electronically.Yet; Should be appreciated that; Order can be through interactive device (for example fax, Email, the phone etc.) issue of communication; And in additional step, start module 119 (for example through the main StoreFront in the startup module 119 or through starting the specially designed customer service StoreFront in the module 119) through artificial key entry of the customer service of representing GOCA 113.In order, the template that the ticket of particular type to be printed is signed is arranged in GOCA 113.Preferably, following information is included in the order: (i) client; (ii) order line (order line); (iii) format number (being label design); And (iv) will be bonded to the variable data on the label.

Can to be that (i) is independent key in or (ii) use the coding that is assigned with from " question blank " of client's appointment, to retrieve so that greatly simplify the ticket order release processing to each component (the for example vitta of style, size and suitable size color) that should be noted that the variable data of specific ticket order.As in step 213, using first example of " question blank ", be appreciated that selected variable information bar (for example style, size and color bar) can use traditional alphanumeric storage holding unit (SKU) coding retrieval from " question blank ".As in step 213, using second example of " question blank ", should be appreciated that " inquiry " that the input of dimension information can use the business rules of client's appointment to key in the vitta of suitable size color.

In case receive ticket order, start module 119 guide again (promptly transmitting) ticket order to form management module 121 with affirmation; If ticket order is identified afterwards, then order is sent to order management module 125.

As stated, ticket service place 113 uses designated module to sign proof with the ticket that produces on dynamic, the screen that can be browsed via 117 whole world, internet by the client, and the generation that the ticket on said dynamic, the screen is signed proof is generally by reference marker 215 expressions.In addition, form management module 121 is used to retrieve any variable information about the label proof etc., for example price, size, style, " size color " etc.Therefore, based on network ticket is signed proof and is generated, and the client can browse this through starting module 119.

Based on network ticket is signed the screen display of an example of proof and is being represented by reference marker 237 shown in Figure 11 and generally.Like finding, ticket is signed proof 237 and is represented that exactly proof 237 comprises bar code 238-1, horizontal vitta 238-2, dimension information 238-3 and pricing information 238-4 etc. according to the ticket label of the ticket order generation of issue.As stated, for the purpose of simplifying, the specific drafting element of proof 237 can use " question blank " to provide to discern following relation in response to the alphanumeric input code.

Sign proof according to the ticket that generated, give an opportunity after the client determining whether and need carry out any change proof, as said definite step 1 by reference marker 217 expressions.

Be regarded as necessaryly if be altered to the label proof, then the client can come the edit line ticket to sign the variable data of proof as the screen that gets into form management module 121 via starting module 119, and said edit step is generally by reference marker 219 expressions.Should be noted that any change of in step 219, carrying out about ticket label proof all is reflected in the screen epigraph of label in real time.Therefore, client is provided the screen epigraph of the proof of being edited immediately, and this can be examined need to determine whether extra editor arbitrarily conversely.Like this, client can alternatively design based on network proof, and this will describe the specific label that will produce as the part of initial ticket order exactly.As being appreciated that ground, this ability of GOCA 113 of dynamic apparatus that mutual based tab navigation is provided to its client is as main novel features of the present invention.

Like above explanation briefly, the information type (and can dynamically be modified during the proof processing thus) that is classified as variable data greatly depends on the type with the identification medium that is generated by ticket service place 113.The applicant recognizes two difference examples of the identification medium that can be generated by ticket service place: (1) has the identification medium (for example font type, font size, printed material composing etc.) of relative standard's the attribute of a configuration; Mark is signed and transported to for example traditional price ticket; And (2) have the identification medium of unique relatively attribute of a configuration, for example fabric marker or allow client to realize other similar media types of the design characteristics of technical routine.

About first example of identification medium, be appreciated that system 111 preferably gives the ability of alternatively revising the nonformat attribute that client signs about ticket, for example size, style, price, explanation coding, source country etc.On the contrary; Client can not alternatively revise the attribute of a configuration of signing about ticket; For example font characteristic (for example font type, font size, runic/italic/underscore, engineer's scale etc.) and composing (for example rotation, margin amount, location, territory etc.), this signs types (for example traditional price tickets) to specific ticket usually is " given ".

Second example about the identification medium; Being appreciated that system 111 is preferably impels client alternatively to revise a plurality of attributes of signing about ticket; Comprise the attribute of a configuration signed about ticket etc., for example font characteristic (for example font type, font size, runic/italic/underscore, engineer's scale etc.) and composing (for example rotation, margin amount, location, territory etc.).

In case signing proof, ticket confirms by the client through starting module 119; Then sign information and sent to startup module 119 from form management module 121 about the whole variable ticket of ticket label proof; Conversely; Start module 119 said information is sent to order management module 125, wherein said information and original ticket order data bundle, and said forwarding step is generally by 221 expressions of the reference marker among Figure 10.Though should be noted that signing the format information that designs about ticket is sent to order management module 125, visual (i.e. numeral) component of the label that is identified can be retained in and start in the module 119 (promptly for later the browsing of licensee person).

According to the design that the ticket of confirming is in the above described manner signed, the processing that ticket order is performed is following.

The batch processing of order management module 125 inspection ticket orders, said step is by 223 expressions of the reference marker among Figure 10.Especially, the 129 management order batch processings (being about to similar ticket order is grouped in together to minimize printing cost) of order management module 125 guiding bulk management modules.In addition; Based on confirming the number of labels that each order should be printed from the composing of form management module 121, and (2) minimize the quantity of needed printed panel and composing that optimization is printed to form management module 121 guiding optimal management modules 127 through (1).

By instruction action from order management module 125, after the bulk management module 129 printing work order (according to the batch processing of in step 223, carrying out) is sent to form management module 121, transfer step is generally by reference marker 225 expressions.Because ticket order batch processing, if available, form management module 121 is called optimal management module 127, and obtains output file variable and persistent data and the design of generation ticket label.Should be noted that order management module 125 definite printing centers 115 that are suitable for most being mated with generation ticket label, and in view of the above, form management module 121 produces the specific format of selected (being target) printers 139 requirements and the output file of composing.A very useful characteristic of present ticket order treatment system is to change printer or composing if desired, and then form management module 121 automatically regenerates output data file.

Pilot block system modeling piece 131 is handled print order after the order management module 125, and said instruction step is generally by reference marker 227 expressions.

When using nonnumeric printing equipment to carry out printing (for example lithographic printing, multi-functional printing etc.); Form management module 121 produces complete output file (for example pdf type file), and this output file comprises other similar projects of a page size, composing, margin amount, row, uninterrupted power supply number, font and needs printing etc.It is also important that note form management module 121 with said information separated be other flaggy of phase region to be used for printing equipment, produce the advantage of significant time and cost savings thus.

Should further note, for lithographic printing, the physical boards that the output file that is generated by form management module 121 is used by offset press with generation through running software.It should be understood that demonstration that form management module 121 control batch/orders prepare to discharge handles (comprising closing date, plate number, color, quantity etc.) and afterwards,, the .pdf file is discharged or sends to plate making software based on operator's guiding.

For digital printed processing, similarly output file below will further specify through any other front-end softwares that form management module 121 is directly released into printer or needs.

Based on instruction from order management module 125; Discharge output file after the form management module 121 as the electronic data stream that is used for target printer 139 forms; Output file is released to the part of the print management module 137 at selected printing center 115 as the print stream of appointment, and said release steps generally is represented as reference marker 229.Preferably, form management module 131 uses AS/2 type agreement to transport with ensureing with optimized safe.

Whole various print stream that management receives from ticket service 113 after the print management module 137, said management process generally is expressed as reference marker 231.Especially; 137 inspections of print management module are waited in line the printing screen of a plurality of type of printer and discharge the printing on-screen data to flow to available printerfacing; These printerfacings comprise following one or more than one: (a) printer software; (b) preprinted software, and (c) be directed to printer.In addition, if printer 139 uses printed panel, then print management module 137 discharges the preprinted software that printing flows to the management printed panel generation at preprinted 141 places.Should be noted that because print management module 137 and form management module 121 are correlation modules independently, so system 111 can support multiple different printer, this is high expectations.

Simultaneously; Print management module 137 discharges (ganged) print order of combination to suitable printerfacing; Notice about the order of these combinations is sent it back order management module 125 from print management module 137 so that allow the related data (for example state, work information etc.) of real-time tracking about pending print order, is represented as reference marker 233 as the said step 1.

In a word, form and print management module management Overall Steps, these steps directly are in before the supply of the production that is ready to submit to software, and this software is responsible for actual driving printing machine (numeral) or plate producer (offset printing).Therefore, the software of best type still can be used for this specific printing treatment.

With reference now to Figure 12 (a)-(c); Show the front plan view of signing various these 239-1 of ticket signed-off sample, 239-2 and 239-3 that the part of production stage 231 generated as ticket, this 239 is printed wherein various ticket signed-off samples on it about the main distinction between the selected variable information.Especially, this 239-1 of ticket signed-off sample, 239-2 and 239-3 difference each other is (i) dimension information and the color-code of (ii) printing size color on it.

For example, with reference now to Figure 12 (a), this 239-1 of ticket signed-off sample representes to be of a size of the price tag of small size clothes article.Therefore, this 239-1 of ticket signed-off sample provide gradual change horizontal vitta 240-1 to represent redness.

As another example, with reference now to Figure 12 (b), this 239-2 of ticket signed-off sample representes to be used for the price tag of the clothes article of medium size.Therefore, this 239-2 of ticket signed-off sample provide gradual change horizontal vitta 240-2 to represent green.

As another example, with reference now to Figure 12 (c), this 239-3 of ticket signed-off sample representes to be used for the price tag of the clothes article of large size.Therefore, this 239-3 of ticket signed-off sample provide gradual change horizontal vitta 240-3 to represent blueness.

Should be noted that each ticket signed-off sample originally 239 all can use the flexographic device to generate.Yet, should be appreciated that each ticket signed-off sample originally 239 all can generate (for example offset printing, heat drawing, digital printed device etc.) by selectable printing equipment under the situation that does not deviate from spirit of the present invention.

Should also be noted that the particular characteristic that each ticket signed-off sample basis 239 is not limited to represent here.In addition, should be appreciated that the composing of each ticket signed-off sample this 239 size, shape and/or variable information can be modified under the situation that does not deviate from spirit of the present invention.

In case ticket is endorsed brush and is finished dealing with, then storehouse management module 133 by order management module 125 indication with the labelling and packaging operation of management manufacturer 19 places, as the said step 1 by reference marker 235 expressions.Should note; Storehouse management module 133 provides related packaging information (for example senior transport notice (ASN)) to order management module 125; This order management module 125 conversely can be by the participant who the is authorized to whole world retrieval of the supply chain that is used to follow the tracks of purpose, and this is high expectations.Simultaneously, dispatch list can send to fiscal module 135 to handle by order management module 125.

Embodiment shown in the present invention only is intended to as an example and those skilled in the art should be able to be under the situation that does not deviate from spirit of the present invention make variations and modifications to this.All these variations and modification are intended to fall in the scope of the present invention that is defined by the following claims.

As an example, said method combines the production of ticket label, label, sign etc. and explains.Yet, be appreciated that here the novel concept of explanation can be under the situation that does not deviate from spirit of the present invention realizes about the print of any type.

As another example, be appreciated that the module in ticket service place 113 can be added, remove and/or make up under the situation that does not deviate from spirit of the present invention.

As another example, should be noted that above-mentioned ticket signs the mutual based on network processing of proof and eliminated in most cases this demand of production of physics ticket signed-off sample.Yet, found in some cases, exist and above-mentioned based on network ticket to be signed proof handle 211 obvious demand and attempt confirming extra this proof of the physics ticket signed-off sample step after ticket on the screen is signed proof to be included in client.

Can occur in for example when the accuracy of match colors is confirmed in expectations of customers physics ticket signed-off sample demand originally.As understandable, to have found to compare with other aspects of the overwhelming majority of proof on the screen owing to intrinsic color change between ink in printing press and the computer demonstration, match colors gives the reliability and the accuracy of the less degree of client on the screen.

The color print system is used to use the colouring agent (pigment, dyestuff etc.) of the limited quantity with idealized absorption characteristic to duplicate the image that computer generates.Therefore, be well known that application " colour correction " thus technology makes printing color to the original art work best feasible coupling is provided.This colour correction is usually directed to the R-G-B signal (after this being called RGB) of measuring original color is converted into the color-separated of the colouring agent quantity that multicolour standard or control is used to print.Be well known that most be widely used in four colour standards of handling printing yellow-deep red red-bluish-green-Hei (after this being called YMCK).Up-to-date color standard is (Hexachrome is the registered trade mark of the Pan Tong company in N.J. Ka Ershidate city (carlstadt)), and it is through using brighter YMCK printing ink and adding orange colour and green ink is expanded printable Color Range.

Digital printing system is quantized image on space and tone.Two dimensional image is by the matrix notation of picture element or " pixel ", and the color of each pixel is by a plurality of tones or shade value representation corresponding to the color component of pixel.Color-values comprises one group of rgb value (when image is measured) or one group of YMCK value (being used to control the measured color of quantity of ink to optimal approximation that is used by printer).Therefore, the coloured image that comprises picture element matrix can be used as one group of data point and is stored in the computer.The question blank realization of character is measured in colour correction usually via spectral luminosity.

The situation that needs colour correction that another is known produces the fact of using himself specific printing ink, paper and printing condition combination from each print system.Therefore, on two kinds of dissimilar printers, reliably in the copy art article, need usually to convert into and on second printer, representes second group of data point of colouring intensity on the same group in one group of data point of one group of half tone dot percentage of expression on first printer.

Can also take place to satisfy subjective client's preference physics ticket signed-off sample demand originally, this preference can only produce in this printing of physics ticket signed-off sample back.Especially, found to be printed with on it overall picture of the specific quality (for example lacklustre) of the substrate that ticket signs and/or the product that polishing (the for example surface of gloss) can change completion significantly and therefore, only can be examined by the test sample book that generates physics.

Therefore; Be appreciated that; Processing 211 shown in Figure 10 can be modified to and comprise that the ticket that generates physics signs the selection of proof (be ticket signed-off sample this) and sign proof with the ticket on the screen of confirming to confirm provisionally, and the processing of said modification shows in Figure 13 and generally by reference marker 250 expressions in detail.

Shown in figure 13, handle 250 and be similar to processing 211, wherein handle 250 and start the ticket order (being step 213) of catching by GOCA 113 electronics.Should be noted that based on the ticket order that receives GOCA 113 specifies the specific printer platform of carrying out ticket order.Like the explanation of another kind of mode, GOCA 113 specifies the printing machine (for example flexographic, offset printing, numeral) of the particular type that is used to print ticket order the most at last.Should note; The printer platform of appointment can be selected; Wherein (i) specifies based on clear and definite client; (ii) historical based on the printing before the client, and/or (iii) based on the reasoning from logic (for example the selection of ticket label substrate or material can become the essential of use particular printer) through GOCA 113.

Based on the ticket order of being caught by GOCA 113 electronics, the user can sign proof (being step 215) via the ticket on the retrieve screen.Should be noted that the proof on the screen shows the specific print characteristics of considering to be assigned to the printer platform of printing ticket order.

If client confirms that the proof on the screen needs to change (being step 217), then client can be via the proof on the internet direct modification screen (being step 219).In case client is satisfied to the proof on the screen, then the ticket on the screen of provisional confirmation is signed order management module 125 that proof and corresponding ticket order information finally is sent to GOCA 113 to carry out (being step 221).In response to this, the execution (being step 223-235) of order management module 125 management ticket orders.

As shown in Figure 13; In case processing 250 is that with the different of processing 211 proof sends to order management module (being step 221) prior to said proof and confirmed (being step 217) provisionally on the screen; Then client is provided the ticket that receives physics and signs choice of sample with the sample on the screen of confirming to confirm provisionally, as the said selection step 1 by reference marker 251 expressions.

If client does not need the ticket signed-off sample basis of physics; On the screen of then confirming provisionally ticket sign proof be confirmed to be final affirmation and; Conversely, proof (and corresponding ticket order information) is sent to order management module 125 to carry out (being step 221) on the screen.At this moment, handle 250 to continue with the 211 identical modes of processing.

Yet if customer requirement is signed the ticket signed-off sample basis that proof generates physics based on the ticket on the screen, print management module 137 is sent tickets and is signed proof requests (based on proof on the screen of provisional confirmation) to the printing center 115 with digital proof ability.In press the heart 115, and this generates the ticket signed-off sample of physics based on proof on the screen of provisional confirmation, and said sample generates as the step 1 by reference marker 253 expressions.Should be noted that in step 253, to generate ticket signed-off sample particular procedure originally, and therefore, will illustrate in greater detail following as main novel features of the present invention.

Preferably, originally 115 quilts are generated the ticket signed-off sample of physics at selected printing center, and the digital printer that ticket is signed the digital printer of proof sample or (ii) divided the product quantity that is equipped with generation ticket label is extraly printed in its use (i) specially uniquely.Can be used to produce this one type digital printer of physics ticket signed-off sample and be HP (Hewlett-Packard) Indigo digital printer by the commercial type of the company of Hewlett-Packard (Hewlett-Packard) of the Atlanta of Georgia.As understandable, digital printer (the for example Indigo digital printer of HP) uses the imaging system of no plate that high printing quality is provided.Therefore, the general technology that document printing is provided short-term operation and cost savings that is characterised in that of digital printer (being called digital printer or digital printer equally in the art simply) simultaneously, allows the theme of printing to change greatly.With this ability, be appreciated that digital printer with particularly useful, particularly in generating the physics ticket signed-off sample restricted supply originally that possibly need or maybe not need revise.

In case physics ticket signed-off sample originally is used the digital printer generation and is provided to client, then client is estimated the chance whether proof need make any modification once more, and said estimating step is generally by reference marker 255 expressions.

If client confirms ticket and signs proof and do not need further modification that then this ticket is signed proof and is regarded as final affirmation.At this moment, processing 250 proceeds to the ticket label proof execution on step 221 and the final screen of confirming of ticket order use.

Yet, if client signs dissatisfied and definite need further modification of proof to the ticket of physics, handle 250 and proceed to step 219, give client carries out direct modification to the proof on the screen via the internet chance.After in step 219, the proof on the screen having been carried out any modification, handle 250 and turn back to step 217 and whole proof is handled (i.e. circulation) and is repeated.Like this, be appreciated that client can according to the ticket of physics sign write down in the proof cause the proof on the discontented attribute modification screen arbitrarily.Therefore; Sign the ticket signed-off sample basis of proof and physics through the ticket on the use screen; Client is given the chance of comprehensive inspection and if desired, then before carrying out ticket order, revises ticket and signs proof, has eliminated the expensive possibility of repeating print of the whole ticket order of customer requirement thus.

As stated; Step 253 relates to detailed processing; Wherein the physics ticket signed-off sample of the proof on the screen of provisional confirmation this generated (be preferably use digital printer), this abundant print characteristics (for example offset printing or flexographic machine) of signing of coupling ticket of using printer platform of appointment to produce of this physics ticket signed-off sample.With reference now to Figure 14,, shown that having described this generation of ticket signed-off sample in more detail handles 253 flow chart.Especially; In the first step of processing 253; Each available printer platform (for example lithographic press, flexographic machine and/or digital printer etc.) at 115 places, printing center of appointment is calibrated to reach the explanation of network offset printing publication (SWOP) standard, and said calibration steps is generally by reference marker 257 expressions.Like following further detailed explanation, the calibration of the printing standard of each printing machine to international publication is accomplished through the printing test file and if desired, is then regulated printing machine based on the result who obtains.

Should be noted that SWOP is the recognized standard, this standard-required just can be claimed this standard that submits to result's affirmation.The SWOP standard has specified on proof and has exported about the measurement of color control strip and according to the production of certain standard.In the present invention, because generating about 175 SID, the SID scope of the about 150-155 of SWOP standard-required and method of the present invention measure, so solid black ink density (SID) target and color control strip make it not satisfy the SWOP standard.Therefore, though present printing target criteria is based on measurement control in the SWOP, be appreciated that in fact method of the present invention disobey SWOP.

Through the various printing machines of 115 calibrations of the heart in press, international color consortium (ICC) profile is handled printer platform about appointment (for example offset printing, flexographic, numeral etc.) and is carried out, and said ICC profile is handled generally by reference marker 259 expressions.Briefly, the ICC profile handle 259 relate to profile expression or explanation, its be applied to digital printer so that itself and the identical print characteristics printing of the printer platform based on plate (for example flexographic or offset printing printer) as appointment.Therefore, in case profile is set for digital printer, any printed text that sends to digital printer will generate the proof of the print characteristics of duplicating the ticket label of being produced by the printer platform of appointment exactly, and this is high expectations.

Should be noted that ICC profile processing 259 is required, because every type printing machine all has unique print characteristics.Therefore, based on the proof on the screen of the provisional confirmation of the print characteristics of the production platform of appointment (in fact normally based on plate) generation possibly need to use the printing of digital printer change (for example the color conversion value can be applied to digital printer the color palette so that more accurately corresponding to the color palette of lithographic press).Do not have the ICC profile to handle 259, the ticket order that the ticket signed-off sample of the physics that is generated by digital printer originally possibly inaccurately represented to be performed is in the outward appearance during printing on the printer platform in appointment.Should be noted that proof on the screen is changed using particular procedure that digital printer generates sample as novel features of the present invention, and likewise, will illustrate in greater detail below.

Based on the step of accomplishing 259, the sample that the specimen needle that is generated by digital printer generates the printer platform by appointment and by inspection visually so that match colors fully, as the said inspection step 1 by reference marker 261 expressions.Global product development (GPD) confirm to use whether compliant of sample that digital printer generates afterwards, as said definite step 1 by reference marker 263 expressions.

As an example; For ticket order for the appointment of the product that uses offset printing or flexographic machine; GPD must confirm whether digital printer duplicates Pantone matching system (PMS); Special look (spot color) or special matched look, its use will use pure color of (i) mixing in advance or (ii) use it to handle the processing of color (yellow, deep red red, bluish-green, black, orange, violet and green) on digital printer.As understandable, found that in some cases the color of digital printer can not mate the color that is created on offset printing or the flexographic machine (for example metallochrome or at very unique suprabasil proof).

If the sample that uses digital printer to generate does not reach standard, then the printer platform of this uses of ticket signed-off sample appointment generates, and said sample generates to be represented by reference marker 265 as the step 1.Conversely, the sample of generation is transferred to the client so that browse, and said transmitting step is generally by reference marker 267 expressions.As stated, use printing machine generation ticket label proof to cause significant cost component based on plate.Therefore, should be appreciated that the preferred embodiment that generates ticket label proof is to use digital printer.

Therefore, if the sample that uses digital printer to generate reaches standard, then the color management of digital printer is used in the preparation of printing specimen, as the said color management step 1 by reference marker 269 expressions.Like following further explanation, color management step 269 relates to the color management of digital printer and handles the ticket signed-off sample color representation accurately originally to guarantee to be generated by digital printer.Based on the completion of color management step 269, ticket is signed proof and is used digital printer to generate, and said proof generates as the step 1 by reference marker 271 expressions.In case proof is accomplished, the ticket signed-off sample of then in step 267, accomplishing originally is transferred to the client.

With reference now to Figure 15,, shows the flow chart of describing calibration process 257 in more detail.Especially, in the first step of calibration process 257, the calibration testing of the digital printer of generation comprises: (i) blue-green, reddish violet, yellow, the grey slope of black (CMYK); (ii) aim at test; (iii) density measurement; And (iv) selected color universe is in harmonious proportion, and said calibration testing generates as the step 1 by reference marker 273 expressions.Be used to set up the print characteristics (for example density and dot gain (dotgain)) of digital printer after the calibration testing of using in the step 273, said establishment step is generally by reference marker 275 definition.Use the calibration testing result, the density of digital printer and dot gain are calibrated to standard network offset printing (SWOP) standard, and said digital printer calibration steps is generally by reference marker 277 expressions.

Directly the printed panel (i) of the printer platform from the computer generated image to the appointment is under the situation of not using film (film) (being the processing of computer to plate (CTP)) and (ii) do not use compensated curve after the digital calibration test file, and said plate image-forming step is generally by reference marker 279 expressions.Be used to after the printed panel of imaging measure blue-green, reddish violet, black and yellow dot gain 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, said dot gain measuring process is generally by reference marker 281 expressions.

Analyzed after the result that dot gain is measured need to determine whether the calibration once more of plate imaging processing, said analytical procedure is generally by reference marker 283 expressions.Especially, dot gain measure analyzed with confirm 0% dot gain whether actual be 0%, 25% dot gain whether actual be 25% etc.

Calibration once more if desired, then computer to plate (CTP) is by calibration once more, and said calibration steps once more is generally by reference marker 285 expressions.

If do not need to calibrate once more (perhaps after calibration steps 285 is accomplished); Then through using compensated curve and be imaged on the galley and said plate being sent to the printer platform of appointment conversely, said image-forming step is generally by reference marker 287 expressions at CTP in the digital printer calibration testing.The printer platform of appointment (for example lithographic press, flexographic machine etc.) is used to the digital calibration test target standard of printing standard network offset printing publication (SWOP) color afterwards, and said print steps is generally by reference marker 289 expressions.Be registered as 50% CYMK after the dot gain.

Use four color shade slopes, the dot gain of CYMK and density are measured at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% place, and said measuring process is generally by reference marker 291 expressions.Accomplish based on it, measured dot gain and density are examined with respect to the SWOP standard, are represented by reference marker 293 as the said inspection step 1.If the reading of density and dot gain meets the SWOP standard, then handle and 257 finish (and handle 253 advance to ICC profile step 259).

Yet if the reading of density and dot gain does not meet the SWOP standard, curve is added to CTP with the departing from of compensation density and dot gain and SWOP standard, and said curve adds as the step 1 by reference marker 295 expressions.Through the interpolation of said curve, handle 257 and turn back to step 287.Should be noted that the printer platform in appointment is under the situation of digital printer (rather than location-based printing machine), directly digital printed profile is changed with the said printing of SWOP standard implementation according to density and dot gain.

As stated, the ICC profile is handled 259 and is started based on the completion of calibration process 257.With reference now to Figure 16,, shows the flow chart of describing ICC profile processing 259 in more detail.Especially, in the first step of processing 259, profile color test sample book is used the printer platform printing of appointment, and said sample print steps is generally by reference marker 297 expressions.The color test sample book that in step 297, produces is converted into LAB value conversely producing the file polling table of each printer platform, and said form generates to be represented by reference marker 299 as the step 1.

Generated after the software that uses a computer, file polling table and converts equal digital printed characteristic into the printer platform with appointment, said switch process is generally by reference marker 301 expressions.Be incorporated into digital printed file after the printing convert file that produces, said integrating step is generally by reference marker 303 expressions.Like this, the digital printed print characteristics that is configured to duplicate the printer platform of appointment.

The selectable method that should be noted that the moulding of ICC profile is illustrated in the european patent application No.584019 that announced on February 23rd, 1994, said applying for reference to being incorporated into this.

With reference now to Figure 17,, shows and illustrate in greater detail the ticket that is used to generate physics and sign the digital printed color of proof and form and handle 269 flow chart (be digital printed whether can sign file) by handling color, pure color or its combined printing ticket.In color form to be handled 269 first step, the operator of preprinted from dispatch list (being GPD) receive digital printed proof work cover (jacket) and the product documentation folder, said receiving step is generally by reference marker 305 expressions.In response to this, the ink type that preprinted operator needs with reference to the particular work that is presented on the product documentation folder, said refer step are generally by reference marker 307 expressions.Especially; Preprinted operator analyze in handling color (promptly using the combination of blue-green, yellow, reddish violet and black) or specially in the look (spot color) (promptly use selected independently color, for example those are represented as the color of the part of Pantone matching system (PMS)) printing work whether can effectively print.

Based on the analysis of carrying out in the step 307, preprinted operator determines at first whether printing work can specially be printed on look or the processing color, and said deciding step is generally by reference marker 309 expressions.Should be noted that handling colors (being blue-green, yellow, reddish violet and black) for four is the standard color that generally is provided in digital printed.

If printing work can be printed at the processing color, final printing is prepared and will be carried out according to the operating procedure (SOP) of standard, and said final preparation process is generally by reference marker 311 expressions.Explanation in another way, because printing work can use four digital printed standard color to carry out with 100% color accuracy, digital printed color palette does not need to regulate.

On the contrary, if can not be exactly stencil dataller and do handling colour printing, then the operator of preprinted confers the type with the special look of confirming to add to digital printer, said conferring as the step 1 by reference marker 313 expressions.Based on the analysis of taking in the step 313, the operator of preprinted confirms at first whether printing work can use 5,6 or 7 colors to print, and said analytical procedure is generally by reference marker 315 expressions.As understandable, 5,6 or 7 colors possibly relate to four and handle color (being CMYK) and 1,2 or 3 extra coupling color (for example PMS or special coupling color).

If confirm that printing work can use 5,6 or 7 colors to print; Then the operator of the preprinted specific processing color of in the automatic workflow server (for example Nexus) of preprinted, keying in said extra coupling color forms (be about to the color of reason everywhere that selected coupling color adds four standards that are provided on the digital printer in), as the said key entry step 1 by reference marker 317 expressions.In case key in, then handle 253 and advance to the step 311 of finally printing preparation.

If confirm that printing work cannot use 5,6 or 7 colors to print; Then the preprinted operator keys in arbitrarily extra special look (for example Pantone matching system (PMS) or special coupling color) in the automatic workflow server (for example Nexus) of preprinted, as the said key entry step 1 by reference marker 319 expressions.As understandable, be mixed on the digital printer after each extra special look.In case mix, then handle 269 and advance to the step 311 of finally printing preparation.

Should be noted that if match colors can not use 4,5,6 or 7 colors to accomplish fully, then handle 269 and only take color mixture (being step 319).Because handling the mixing of color is processing consuming time, be appreciated that color forms processing 269 and on purpose uses color mixture as final means, this is high expectations.

With reference now to Figure 18,, shows the processing 265 that the printer platform printing ticket that uses appointment is in more detail signed proof.Especially, in handling 265 first step, production platform proof cover (jacket) is generated by global product development, and this sends to the preprinted machine conversely, and said proof cover generates as the step 1 by reference marker 321 expressions.At this moment, the printing machine in press heart 115 places is selected by the record fingerprint producing, as the said step 1 by reference marker 323 expressions.As the definition here, term " fingerprint printing " relates to the method that is used to measure the strictness how specific printing machine based on plate to print, and these plate producers that measure traditionally by printing machine provide.Fingerprint printing measurement impels the printing machine based on plate to be adjusted to and need on color, to mate with specific sample.

Based on the completion of step 323, use ticket on the screen to sign proof and measure with the fingerprint that will print and generate the egative film after regulating, as the said generation step 1 by reference marker 325 expressions.Conversely, the egative film after the adjusting is used to generate the plate of color-separated, and said plate generates as the step 1 by reference marker 327 expressions.

Through the plate that in step 327, generates, the setting of producing printing machine is adjusted to the setting of its initial fingerprint printing, the said setting as the step 1 by reference marker 329 expressions.At this moment, this is printed the ticket signed-off sample on the printing machine of appointment, and said sample print steps is generally by reference marker 331 expressions.The ticket signed-off sample be examined after this with screen on ticket sign proof and/or client's indication is compared exactly, as the said inspection step 1 by reference marker 333 expressions.

Confirm afterwards whether the ticket signed-off sample originally is identified, represent by reference marker 335 as said definite step 1.

If the ticket signed-off sample originally is identified, then pending ticket order in the printing of the product of appointment by operation accomplishing, as the said step 1 by reference marker 337 expressions.In case ticket order operation is accomplished, the egative film that is then used by the printing machine of appointment is stored to combine later order to use (accomplish thus and handle 265) with plate, and said storing step is generally represented by reference marker 339.

If the ticket signed-off sample originally is not identified, then handle 265 turn back to step 329 and appointment printing machine prepare through it is provided with regulates back its when initial fingerprint is printed standard and print again.

Embodiment shown in the present invention is intended to only exemplarily explain and those skilled in the art should be able to make variations and modifications to it under the situation that does not deviate from spirit of the present invention.All these variations and modification are intended to fall in the scope of the present invention that is defined by the following claims.

Claims (9)

1. method that digital printer and color character based on the printer platform of plate are complementary said method comprising the steps of:

(a) the said printer platform based on plate of calibration is to meet the standard of network offset printing publication (SWOP) standard;

(b) generate international color consortium (ICC) profile based on the printer platform of plate of appointment;

(c) said ICC profile is applied to said digital printer;

(d) color of the said digital printer of management forms character;

(e) article that use said digital printer printing to have the printing color group of appointment; And

(f) between said application and management process; Use said digital printer to print first sample; Use said printer platform to print second sample based on plate; And visually with respect to said first sample of said second specimen inspection to guarantee sufficient match colors, if wherein said first sample can not mate the color of said second sample fully, then use substituting said digital printer based on the printer platform of plate and carrying out said article print steps of said appointment;

Wherein said calibration steps comprises:

(a) generate calibration testing;

(b) the said digital printer of calibration is to meet specific printing standard, and the calibration of said digital printer generates the digital printer calibration testing file that comprises first compensated curve;

(c) use said first compensated curve said digital printer calibration testing file of imaging on first group of printed panel of said printer platform based on plate;

(d) use after the imaging printed panel said based on the printing platform of plate on the said calibration testing of printing;

(e) gray ramp of four colors of use is measured the dot gain and the density of blue-green, reddish violet, yellow, black (CMYK); And

(f) measured dot gain and the density of CMYK are compared with the SWOP standard.

2. method according to claim 1, the dot gain of wherein said CMYK and density are measured 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%.

3. method according to claim 2 if the dot gain of wherein measured said CMYK and density do not reach the SWOP standard, then generates second compensated curve to compensate from the dot gain of SWOP standard and departing from of density.

4. method according to claim 1, wherein said ICC profile generate step and comprise:

(a) use said printer platform printing profile test sample book based on plate;

(b) use said profile test sample book to generate the file polling table of said printer platform based on plate; And

(c) said file polling table is attached in the said digital printer so that said digital printer is configured to duplicate the color character of said printer platform based on plate.

5. method that digital printer and color character based on the printer platform of plate are complementary said method comprising the steps of:

(a) the said printer platform based on plate of calibration is to reach specific printing standard, and said calibration may further comprise the steps:

(1) generates calibration testing;

(2) the said digital printer of calibration is to meet specific printing standard, and the calibration of said digital printer generates the digital printer calibration testing file that comprises first compensated curve;

(3) use said first compensated curve said digital printer calibration testing file of imaging on first group of printed panel of said printer platform based on plate;

(4) use after the imaging printed panel said based on the printing platform of plate on the said calibration testing of printing;

(5) use dot gain and the density of the gray ramp of four colors at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% measurement blue-green, reddish violet, yellow, black (CMYK); And

(6) measured dot gain and the density of CMYK are compared with the SWOP standard; If the dot gain of wherein measured said CMYK and density do not reach the SWOP standard, then generate second compensated curve to compensate from the dot gain of SWOP standard and departing from of density;

(b) generate international color consortium (ICC) profile based on the printer platform of plate of appointment;

(c) said ICC profile is applied to said digital printer;

(d) color of the said digital printer of management forms character; And

(e) use said first compensated curve and the said second compensated curve said digital printer calibration testing file of imaging on second group of printed panel of said printer platform based on plate.

6. method according to claim 5, wherein said calibration testing comprises:

(a) CMYK gray ramp;

(b) registration test;

(c) density measurement, and

(d) selected color universe is in harmonious proportion.

7. method that digital printer and color character based on the printer platform of plate are complementary said method comprising the steps of:

(a) the said printer platform based on plate of calibration is to reach specific printing standard, and said calibration may further comprise the steps:

(1) generates calibration testing;

(2) the said digital printer of calibration is to meet specific printing standard, and the calibration of said digital printer generates the digital printer calibration testing file that comprises first compensated curve;

(3) use said first compensated curve said digital printer calibration testing file of imaging on first group of printed panel of said printer platform based on plate;

(4) use after the imaging printed panel said based on the printing platform of plate on the said calibration testing of printing;

(5) use dot gain and the density of the gray ramp of four colors at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% measurement blue-green, reddish violet, yellow, black (CMYK); And

(6) measured dot gain and the density of CMYK are compared with the SWOP standard,

If the dot gain of wherein measured said CMYK and density do not reach the SWOP standard, then generate second compensated curve to compensate from the dot gain of SWOP standard and departing from of density;

(b) generate international color consortium (ICC) profile based on the printer platform of plate of appointment;

(c) said ICC profile is applied to said digital printer;

(d) color of the said digital printer of management forms character, and the step that the color of the said digital printer of wherein said management forms character comprises:

Whether the printing color group of (1) analyzing article can only use four to handle colors and coupling exactly on color through said digital printer;

(2), then only use four to handle the printing color group that colors print said article through said digital printer if mate exactly; And

(3), then confirm to be added to said digital printer to mate the printing color of said article exactly except four which kind of colors of handling the colors if do not mate exactly; And;

(e) article that use said digital printer printing to have the printing color group of appointment.

8. method according to claim 7, wherein said four processing colors are blue-green, reddish violet, yellow and black.

9. method according to claim 7, wherein said definite step that need be added to said digital printer except four which kind of colors of handling the colors comprises:

(a) the printing color group of analyzing said article whether can through said digital printer only use four handle colors and maximum three coupling colors and on color coupling exactly;

(b), then only use four processing colors and be three at most and mate the printing color groups that color prints said article through said digital printer if mate exactly; And

(c) if mate exactly, the printing color group of then only using four processing colors and at least one special look to print said article through said digital printer.

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