JPH0722990B2 - Method and device for recording pattern of characters and symbols - Google Patents

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention records a pattern such as a character symbol, for example, a character, on one side of a recording medium during electronic typesetting from the recorded pattern data on the recording medium. The present invention relates to a recording method and apparatus for calling a text forming pattern data of a typesetting command required for recording and converting the text into a control signal for a recording mechanism movable relatively to a recording medium. The above device is also referred to below as an electronic phototypesetting device.

2. Description of the Related Art An electro-typesetting device having an electron tube as a recording mechanism is known from U.S. Pat. No. 3,305,841.

The characters required for typesetting work are stored in the character memory in the form of character data. The text to be typeset is converted into text data by the typesetting computer, and this text data forms a typesetting command for the typesetting device. The text data required for character recording is called from the character memory by the text data during the typesetting operation, and the called character data is converted into a video signal. This video signal gives a control command to the electron tube. Each character is recorded on the picture screen of the electron tube in a line raster that extends in the direction of the line of text from the vertical lines that line up. At that time, the character is composed of black and white portions according to the contour thereof by the light / dark control of the electron beam controlled by the video signal.

The characters recorded on the image screen of the electron tube are exposed on the recording medium using an optical system.

In such known phototypesetting devices, the letters of the individual alphabet letters must be stored for all the sizes of the appearing letter patterns. As a result, the capacity of the character memory becomes significantly large.

Characters are generally coded and recorded in the form of character data in order to reduce the capacity of the character memory. There are various coding schemes for this purpose. The dot coding of characters is described, for example, in U.S. Pat.No. 3,300,841, the run length coding for each streak is in U.S. Pat.No. 3,480,943, and the coding of the contours of characters is in the German Federal Patent. They are known from Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2919013.

From German Patent Specification No. 2422464 (US Pat. No. Re30,679), it is necessary to convert contour-encoded character data into control commands for the electron beam of an electron tube when recording or typesetting characters. A method of encoding character data for contours is known.
In the case of such contour coding, a character is drawn by a contour line pair in the XY coordinate system, and in this XY coordinate system, the X coordinate is changed in steps of the same length. Each contour line pair is defined by the Y coordinate of the starting point and the gradient of the contour line, where the gradient is represented as a change of the Y coordinate for successive X coordinate steps. Therefore, the curved state of the character contour is represented as a result of varying gradients. Characters are also formed on the electron tube from side-by-side drawing lines that extend perpendicular to the text. Each character is then recorded at the position defined by the text line on which it is intended to be typeset, and all characters of each text line are recorded sequentially. The control commands for actuating and shutting off the electron beam are then taken out by the detection of the respective intersection of the contour line pair and (in each case) the image line to be recorded instantly, whereby the electron beam is in each case detected. An operative connection is provided between the upper side and the associated lower contour line.

The above-mentioned technical means for fetching control commands take a considerable amount of time, and as a result high recording speeds cannot be obtained. Although using an electron tube as a recording mechanism provides a high typographic quality of phototypesetting, it has the drawback of limiting the effective image screen of the electron tube and thus the recording format. By the way, today, there is a demand that the entire newspaper surface be typeset in one working process. A relative offset between the image screen surface and the recording mechanism between the individual partial exposures of the image screen surface size is effective for typesetting one such newspaper surface in an electron tube typesetting device. There must be. This adds significantly to the cost of the mechanical part, introduces positioning errors and slows down the recording speed.

From European Patent Application Publication No. 0096079, there is already known a method and an apparatus for printing the entire surface of a newspaper by dots or lines by a printing raster from coded character data according to a layout plan. A recording mechanism, for example a mosaic recording mechanism, is guided point by point across the entire width of the newspaper surface, so that a complete image of the entire newspaper surface is recorded each time. Each drawing line then consists of partial drawing lines belonging to different text blocks or text lines according to the layout plan. The coded character (or type) data required for recording each partial drawing line is called from the character pattern memory and decoded into control instructions. The control commands for the individual partial image lines are arranged according to the sequential arrangement of the individual partial image lines within the complete image line, and are filed in the memory for each image point in the recording raster for the entire surface of the newspaper. The content represents the information to be recorded on the entire surface of the newspaper with precise dots. In that case, during recording of the entire newspaper, individual control commands are output for each image point and for each image line in synchronization with the movement of the recording mechanism in the form of a recording medium, and are supplied to the recording mechanism.

Problems to be Solved by the Invention In order to save storage capacity, the entire surface of a newspaper is exposed to a continuous strip (strip), and the height of these strips includes a plurality of lines and the width of those strips. The width of the entire newspaper can be made to correspond to the European Patent Application Publication No. 0096
It is already known from the publication No. 079. Coded characters (prints) belonging to the individual positions of the strips on the newspaper, in each case for recording strips.
The data is recalled, processed to form control commands for a number of lines corresponding to the height of the strips and stored in a so-called window memory. The capacity of the memory then corresponds to a number of picture points which can be divided into one strip. Before the strip is moved to a new position on the newspaper, the control commands are transferred from the window memory into the buffer memory of the same capacity for each image line and read from the buffer memory for controlling the recording mechanism, while the empty space is released. The window memory that has reached the state is newly occupied. The drawback of this memory system is that it must accept the transfer time of the control command, which limits the recording speed for each movement of the strip. The above scheme can only work as desired if the height of the window memory corresponds to the maximum height of the characters to be recorded. The disadvantage of having to satisfy such a condition is that the required height of the window memory must be determined anew by using character commands during the input of text data, and the memory control must be programmed accordingly. That is, the maximum memory capacity must be selected so that the character with the highest height condition can be satisfied even for a headline on a newspaper page, for example. Another drawback of the above method is that when there are not all the characters to be recorded in one strip (European Patent Application Publication No. 0096079; FIG. 12) or two consecutive consecutive characters are one. When the text lines have different basic line heights (Fig. 14 of the same European Patent Application Publication), it is particularly complicated and time-consuming to input and store control commands in the window memory. In these cases, before a partial area of the window memory can be occupied by a control instruction for a subsequent character, the control instruction for the first character must always be first written from that partial area into the buffer memory. The above-mentioned publications do not give any suggestion as to what measures should be taken in recording italic set letters and rotated text lines. It is also known to use a deflectable laser beam as a recording mechanism for recording on such a newspaper.

The object of the present invention is to encode the contour of a pattern such as a character symbol, and to convert the contour-encoded character data into a control command for recording for each dot and each line by a recording raster accurately and quickly. It is an object of the present invention to provide a recording method and apparatus for recording patterns of characters, symbols, etc., in particular, for each image point of a character and for each image line.

According to the invention, the solution according to the invention is achieved by means of the patent claims and by means of the claim 1, while other patent claims describe advantageous embodiments thereof.

Example FIG. 1 shows, from the stored characters and Signets, by the point-wise and line-wise exposure of the recording medium using a light beam which is moved relative to the recording medium,
1 shows the principle configuration of an electronic typesetting device for typesetting the entire newspaper surface (hereinafter simply referred to as the entire paper surface). This typesetting device is a control circuit 1 for converting a text to be typeset into a video signal U _V.
And an exposure unit 2 controlled by the video signal U _V.

From the external text data source 3 (in which the text data of the text already aligned using the typesetting computer is filed), the text data necessary for the exposure of the entire paper surface is controlled via the data line 4. It is transferred into the text plane storage device 5 of the circuit 1. A character / symbol pattern, a character font, which is necessary for the exposure of the entire paper surface, a pattern in which a contour (about) is coded, and character data (hereinafter, referred to as character data) are similarly data from an external character font record storage unit 6. Control circuit 1 via line 7
Is transferred to the character memory 8. The contour coding will be described later with reference to the graph diagram of FIG.

The text data of the entire paper surface is read from the text surface storage device 5 and supplied to the decoder 10 via the data line 9. This decoder decodes text data into characters, position commands and character commands. Character commands, such as type size, thickness, type angle, italic angle, recording resolution, position commands for individual text lines, are provided to video signal generator 12 via data line 11. The recording command is supplied to the memory controller 14 for the character pattern memory 8 via the data line 13. The pattern to be exposed and the character data in which the outline of the character is coded (generally referred to as character data hereinafter) are address-controlled by the character pattern command, and the character data is read from the character memory 8 for each character, and the data is read. It is supplied to the video signal generator 12 via the line 15.

The video signal generator 12 converts the contour-coded character data into digital switching point-marking signals, taking into account the corresponding character commands, these signals being connected via the data line 16 to the video connection of the back-end connection. Positions are determined for each image point and each row by the device 17, and are intermediately stored in the order required for exposure for each image line, and from there, transmitted as a video signal U _V to the exposure unit 2 via the line 18.

The exposure unit 2 comprises a light source 19, for example a laser generator. The light beam 20 generated by the light source 19 is a light modulator 21, for example in the form of an acousto-optical modulator (AOM), a perforated diaphragm 2
2. It reaches the direction changing mirror 24 through the lens 23, and is reflected by the multifaceted rotating mirror 25 (polygonal mirror). The axis of rotation 26 of this mirror is perpendicular to the optical axis of the light beam 20. The motor 27 rotates the polygon mirror 25 at a constant angular velocity in the direction of the arrow. Flat-bed type (flat table)
A recording medium 29 of a format that covers the entire exposed paper surface is provided on the recording carrier 28. The recording medium 29 is, for example, a film material or a photosensitive printing plate. By the rotation of the multi-sided rotating mirror 25, the recording direction (U direction) for each image line of the light beam (this light beam is reflected by each mirror surface 30 and focused on the recording medium 29 using the objective lens 31). In recording medium
29 Swayed above. In this case, the flatbed record carrier 28
Is a stepwise or continuous feed motion (V
Direction) simultaneously. In this way, the light beam 20 '
Sweeps the recording medium 29 with a recording raster in each of the complete lines 36. At that time, the raster (screen) width of the raster depends on the recording definition, the image points, or the line spacing. Such an entire page includes, for example, individual text blocks (also called articles) arranged according to a layout plan. The text block 34 consists of individual lines of text, each line of text comprising a pattern of characters to be exposed. Each text line 35 typically includes a plurality of strokes 36. Each row beam 20 'exposes one complete image 36 (the length of which corresponds approximately to the entire width of the page), so that each complete image 36 has a different partial block 34 or text. It consists of each partial drawing line belonging to row 35. Accordingly, the video signal generator 12 will convert the individual sub-images into a complete image 36 as follows.
Must be put together. That is, the preprocessed video data for each image point is filed in the memory location of the video storage device 17 corresponding to the position of the associated image point within the complete image line 36. Recording medium 29
Exposure can be done positively or negatively.

For example, in the case of positive exposure, each image line or partial image line consists of a non-exposed white portion and an exposed black portion. In this case, each character is made up of a black part for each drawing line, during which one complete drawing line 36 is recorded, one black part being exposed each time with each successive character pattern. The length of the black and white parts is defined by the active connection period, which is controlled by the video signal U _V on the line 18 using the acousto-optic modulator 21.

The reading of the video signal U _V from the video storage device 17 is synchronized with the relative movement of the light beam 20 ′ with respect to the recording medium 29.

For this purpose, a pulse generator 37 is connected to the rotary shaft 26 of the multifaceted rotary mirror 25, and this pulse generator 37 is connected to the image point clock train T ₁
Cause The pixel-clock train T ₁ is fed via line 38 to a synchronization stage 39.

On the outside of the flatbed record carrier 28 there is provided an optoelectronic pulse generator 40 in the plane of deflection of the light beam 20 ', one complete image line 36 each time the light beam 20' is hit. At the end of each, a clock train T ₂ "image end" is produced on line 41, which is likewise fed to synchronization stage 39. At the synchronization stage 39, the dot clock row T
_The read address and the read command for the video storage device 17 are read from ₁ and the clock train T ₂ "image line end", and these are supplied to the storage device through the address and control line 42. The black row T ₂ "image end" is the feed motor simultaneously with the stepwise feed movement of the flatbed type record carrier 28.
This feed motor, which is fed to the feed controller 32 for 32, carries out one feed step to the next image line 36 at the end of each complete image line 36. The exposure unit 2 can also consist of photodiode rows or matrices.

In the simplest case, the entire sheet 29 is exposed in one pass. In that case, the video storage device 17 is configured as an entire paper surface memory arranged (positioned) for each image point and for each row, and in this memory, video data of all image points for the entire paper surface 29 is exposed. They are filed in the required order. In such a case, such a full paper-memory having one complete stroke width and full paper height represents (reproduces) the exact information of the entire paper plane.

The entire surface 29 of the paper is effectively exposed in time-sequential and continuous manner in the respective strip-shaped parts as follows: an exposure window having the width and height h of one complete image line 36, The height h is shifted step by step over the entire sheet. This process will be described with reference to the graph diagram of FIG. 2a.

FIG. 2a again shows the entire surface 29 to be exposed having multiple lines 36 and one line of text 35, in which one line of text is covered by a predetermined number of lines 36. Exposure window 20
0 has, for example, a height h corresponding to the number q of lines 36 and the width of one complete line 36 with p points. The position of the exposure window 200 on the entire sheet is in each case defined by the vertical coordinate value V _F (upper edge of the exposure window). Exposure window 2 with coordinate value V _F1
For example, the image line V ₀ -Vq _-1 is exposed at the position I of 00, and then the exposure window 200 is shifted to the position II having the coordinate value V _F2 by the height h regardless of the position of the text line 35. It is, streaked Vq~V ₂ q _-1 corresponding is exposed. Text line 35 shown
Since it does not completely fit in one of the multiple exposure windows 200, its line of text is recorded according to the invention by two successive exposures. That is, the upper part of the text line 35 is recorded at position I and the lower part of the text line 35 is recorded at position II of the exposure window 200, whereby a high recording speed is achieved.

In this case the video storage device 17 has a comparatively small capacity of partial memory 88 arranged by dots and by rows, which is only shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2a. This partial memory 88 is q
The height of the exposure window 200 with memory rows _{0 to} q ₋₁ of
It has the width of one complete line 36, and thus a storage capacity for p × q of video. In this partial memory 88, only the video data belonging to the individual positions of the exposure window 200 are filed, so that the partial memory 88 in each case represents only the information of the exposure window 200 on the entire sheet 29. Therefore, when exposing the entire surface 29 of the paper, the memory rows _{0 to} q _-1 of the partial memory 88 must be associated with the image lines to be exposed at the respective positions of the exposure window 200. For example, at the position I of the exposure window 200, the image lines V ₀ -Vq _-1 are obtained, and at the position II, the image lines Vq to V ₂ q are obtained.
_-1 must be mapped (for this
2a).

Advantageously, in the exemplary embodiment two partial memories 8 which operate alternately
There are 8,88 '. Video data for the position to be recorded instantaneously in the exposure window 200 is read from one partial memory, whereas new video data for the subsequent position in the exposure window 200 is written in the other partial memory.

As described above, the video data belonging to the individual positions of the exposure window 200 on the entire surface of the paper are stored in the memory of each part for each image point and each row in the order required for exposure in the exposure window 200. Must be read. What text data, and video data derived from it, is needed depends on the layout plan of the entire surface 29 to be recorded.

In the simplest case, the text data filed in the disordered state in the text data source 3 is presorted in the required order in the text plane storage device 5 before exposure, and then converted into video data. It takes time.
On the other hand, in the embodiment, presorting is not performed. Advantageously, the required text data is selected from the set of unsorted text data for each actual position of the exposure window 200 during exposure. During this search process, in the text plane storage device 5, firstly, which article or text line is exposed in each case, either completely or only partially.
It is captured if 200 is in the actual position and then the relevant text data is called in the order of its capture detection and converted to video data. This search process will be described with reference to the graph diagram of FIG. 2b. FIG. 2b shows a layout plan 201 for the entire surface 29 to be exposed with text lines 35. The search process can be thought of as follows: a search window 202 corresponding to the exposure window 200 on the entire paper surface 29 is shifted across the layout plan 201 and at each position of the search window 202 at all or only. Only the text data is called in the text line 35 visible in the partial search window 202.

Therefore, in the layout plan 201, the text data includes geometric data of the article and the text line that define the positions of the article and the text line by the coordinate values u and v. Therefore, the article and the text line that enter or enter the relevant search window 202 in each case depend on the check of the geometric data, that is, the vertical coordinate value v of the text line and the different search window 202 on the layout plan 201. By comparison with the vertical coordinate value V _F for the position, it is captured and detected as follows, for example, the upper edge 20 of the text line 35:
3 is compared to the bottom edge 204 (V _F + h) of the search window 202 and the top edge (V _F ) of the search window 202 is compared to the bottom edge 207 of the text line 35. In the illustrated embodiment, the search window 20
Only part of the text line 35 is included in 2 and the vertical dimension Vp of this part is the coordinate value V of the character basic line 207 of the text line 35.
_It is given by the difference between _G and the coordinate value V _F.

Next, the method and apparatus of the present invention will be described in detail.

In a first method step, a closed contour line in the contour coding of a character is drawn starting from the starting point on each contour by successive straight line portions or straight line portions and curved line portions, The coordinate values are determined by a coded raster based on the character pattern-square figure, and are stored as contour coded character data.

Regarding the outline encoding of characters and the encoded character data filed in the character memory 8 of the control circuit 1
It will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 3 shows a character pattern-square (quadrilateral) graphic 45 with a coded raster 46 corresponding to the maximum possible recording resolution. A character 47 is shown in the coded raster 46, and in the example shown a markedly simplified "0" on the character baseline 48. An XY coordinate system 49 is provided for contour coding of the character 47,
The X-axis of this coordinate system and its origin are on the 47-character basic line 48. The character 47 is surrounded by a rectangular character graphic surface 50, which contains the original information of the character 47. The width of the character graphic surface 50 corresponds to the graphic width (ZB), and the height is the value Ymax from the character basic line 48.
And Ymin. Further, the front width dimension (VB) and the total width (GB) of the character rectangular figure 45 are shown.

The contour line (contour) that was closed when the character was encoded
Starting from the starting point on each contour, it is drawn by the contour portion that sequentially progresses in the predetermined coding direction and is consecutive, and the form, length, and position of the contour portion are coded character data. Represented. The contour portion may be a unit vector, a vector or a straight line portion having a different length, or a curved portion. In that case, for example, the outer contour is formed in the clockwise direction, and the inner contour is formed in the counterclockwise direction.

In advantageous contour coding, the contour lines are as shown in FIG.
It is depicted by a contour portion in the form of a straight line portion and a circular portion.
In the character "0", which is markedly simplified, the outer contour is the coordinate.
Starting from a starting point 51 with X ₀₁ , Y ₀₁ and an internal contour starting from a starting point 52 with coordinates X ₀₂ , Y ₀₂ , in the coding direction (rotation in the direction of the arrow), the straight line segment
53, a circular portion 54, a straight line portion 55, and a circular portion 56.

In the character code, the contour portions (straight line portion, circle portion in the clockwise direction, circle portion in the direction opposite to the clockwise hand direction) of the same type and successively continued are combined into one contour command. This contour command includes marker information for each type, information about the number of contour portions, and coordinate positions X and Y for each contour portion with respect to the XY coordinate system 49, in which case the end points for the straight line portion and the circle portion, respectively. The coordinates, and in addition to the circle portion, the starting coordinates are represented relative to the circle center point of the coordinate portion.

The contour command for the straight line portion includes the following information.

1. “Straight line part” (Lin); 2. Number of straight line parts 3. End point coordinates X, Y of the first straight line part 4. End point coordinates X, Y of the second straight line part and the number of straight line parts according to 2. End point coordinates of another straight line portion On the contrary, the contour command for the circular portion includes the following information.

1. "Circle part in the clockwise direction" (CW) or "Circle part in the counterclockwise direction" (ACW) 2. Number of consecutive circle parts 3. First circle as relative coordinates to the center point of the circle part Starting point of the part-coordinates X, Y 4. End point coordinates as an absolute value X, Y; 2.For the other circle parts corresponding to the number according to 2.
Repeated steps 4 and 4. Subsequently, the contour command and the edge of the entire character are fixed in position by the contour command.

The contour coded character data of each character stored in the character memory 8 is composed of the contour command for each contour part of the character and a character square figure (quadrangle) 45, which will be described later. 4 is characteristic data, 5
10 is a contour command.

1. Front width (VB); 2. Character width (ZB); 3. Full width 4. Vertical dimensions Ymax, Ymin of the graphic surface 50 of the character 5. Start coordinates X ₀ , Y _{0 of} the first contour 6. First contour Contour command for (straight line part and circle part) 7. Contour command “End of contour” 8. Start point coordinates of second contour X ₀ , Y ₀ 9. Contour command for second contour 10. Contour command “End of contour” And the above items 5 to 7 are repeated depending on the number of contours, and the contour command "end of character" is given instead of the contour command "end of contour" at the end of the last contour of the character. .

The contour-coded character data read from the character memory 8 is subsequently processed by the video signal generator 12 described in detail in FIG.

The video signal generator 12 has a character decoder 57, a conversion stage 58, a calculation stage 59, an interpolation stage 60, an evaluation stage 61, and a switching point storage device 62.

In the video signal generator 12, first, the coordinates X ₀ , Y _{0 of the} start point and the coordinates X, Y of the end points of the contour portion for each called character in the second method step are calculated as follows. By a factor of a size determined by the size of the character to be recorded and the ratio of the recording raster to the coding raster. For this reason, the contour coded characters read from the character memory 8 via the data line 15 are displayed by the character decoder 57 as length values “prefix width (VB),“ character figure width ”(ZB),“ full width ”. "(GB), and data line 63
The length value of the upper character graphic surface 50, further, the start point coordinates X ₀ , Y ₀ on the data line 64, and the end point coordinates X, Y corresponding to the individual contour portions on the data line 65, further, It is decoded into a contour command "Lin" for a straight line portion, a contour command "CW" for a circular portion in the clockwise direction, and a contour portion "ACW" for a counterclockwise circular portion on the data line 66. The contour command is supplied to the interpolation stage 60 via the data line 66.

The character commands, that is, the recording definition, the character size, the italic angle, and the character angle are supplied to the conversion stage 58 via the data line 11. In conversion stage 58, length value, start point coordinates
X ₀ , Y ₀ , the end point coordinates X, of the contour portion (these are coded and stored by the coded raster in the character memory 8)
Y is changed by a factor of the above magnitude. When changing the length values and the start point coordinates X ₀ , Y ₀ , the character angle and the italic angle are optionally additionally considered. In the calculation stage 59, the changed character graphic width ZB 'and the changed values Y'max, Y'min (these are supplied from the conversion stage 58 to the calculation stage 59 via the data line 67) are changed. In addition, and possibly also rotated, the graphic surface 50 'is calculated. Calculated start point coordinates X _'0, Y' _0, 'the width ZB of' new character graphics plane 50, is altered overall width of lengths Y'max-Y'max and character square graphic 45, data lines 68 Is output via. At the same time, in the calculation stage 59, the difference values ΔX, ΔY between the start point and the end point of each contour portion are calculated from the changed end point-coordinate values X ', Y'on the data line 67'. , To the interpolation stage 60 via the data line 69.

As a result, the character data with the contour coded is
It has been processed into video data for the recording mechanism.

In the third method step, the switching point for the exposure unit 2 in the form of video data required for character recording is determined. For this purpose, first of all, for each successive contour portion of the character, by stepwise interpolation between the intersections of the recording rasters,
On the recording raster, image points that closely approximate the contour portion are captured and confirmed. When interpolation is performed, successive successive interpolation steps are checked for a change in direction, and the image points existing between two successive successive interpolation steps are associated with each other when the predetermined interpolation step combination occurs. It is marked by the marking signal.

When interpolating in the interpolation stage 60, each contour part extends from its starting point to its end point by means of a step width of the recording raster and a right-angled interpolation step ± Xi, ± Yi in the direction of the recording raster and / or diagonally. It is approximated by the steps ± Xi / ± Yi.

In this case image point - coordinates X ^*,従Tsuta accordance Y ^* has the formula (1), from the start point coordinates X _'0, Y' _0, which is changed, and the execution interpolation step to Kakue point, the polarity Obtained by addition.

As soon as the end of one contour portion is reached, the signal "partial end" is produced in the interpolation stage 60, which signal
Is supplied to the memory controller 14 for the character memory 8. As a result, the character data of the contour portion next to the character is output for the subsequent processing until the following time. That is, the character data of all contours of the character is read and output by the character decoder 57 until the signal "character end" on the line 71 is generated.

One embodiment of the interpolation stage 60 is shown in FIG. In order to determine the interpolated image points on the basis of the associated switching points, the executed interpolation steps ± xi, ± yi are transmitted via the lines 72, 73 to the evaluation stage 61, where the switching points concerned are concerned. For each determination, the direction of one interpolation step is compared with the direction of the preceding interpolation step, and one image point is marked as a switching point in the following cases: Marking as described above when one of the interpolation steps is carried out in the direction perpendicular to the drawing direction and two consecutive successive interpolation steps are carried out in the coding direction, i.e. when one predetermined interpolation step combination is present. To be done.
This advantageously suppresses redundant switching points, especially on the horizontal contour.

The evaluation stage 61 consists, for example, of two serially connected registers 79, 80 for the intermediate storage of interpolation steps with the associated polarities ± Xi, ± Yi. The registers 79 and 80 are clock-controlled by the interpolation stage 60 via the line 81. The interpolation step written in register 79 is transferred into register 80 on the next clock. On the other hand, the subsequent interpolation step is written in the register 79, and as a result, 2 bits are respectively written in the registers 79 and 80.
Two consecutive successive interpolation steps are stored. The data outputs 82, 83 of the registers 79, 80 are connected to the address inputs 84, 85 of the fixed value memory 86, in which the fixed value memory depends on the change in direction of two successive interpolation steps. Interpolation step combinations for marking image points are stored as switching points. These interpolation step combinations are shown in the form of the table below, where each switching point is represented by the switching point-marking signal value "H".

(N + 1) interpolation step When one picture point is captured and detected as a switching point, the fixed value memory 86 or the evaluation stage 61 sends a corresponding switching point-marking signal on the line 87.

FIG. 5 is for explaining the determination of each switching point.
The switching point 75 having coordinates X _'0, Y' _0, the coordinate x _'0 + △
By the interpolation steps ± Xi, ± Yi along the straight line portion between the end point 76 having x, y ′ ₀ + Δy, the image 77 that approximates the straight line portion 74 to the recording raster 78 as well as possible is obtained. Captured and detected. The image point 77 marked as a switching point in the evaluation stage 61 is shown by a relatively thick dot in FIG.

Since all the switching points of one character are captured and detected.

In a fourth method step, in the switch point memory device 62, the switch point of the associated switch point of a character to the corresponding memory location-the switch point of that character-image by writing the marking signal value. Is formed. Exposure window
200 or the switching point of one character as a whole depending on the position of the character with respect to the position of the search window 202 (Fig. 2)-
The image or character pattern portion, that is, the exposure window 20 each time
0 or the switching point of the character pattern portion entering the search window 202-an image is formed.

In FIG. 6 such a switching point for the letter "H" (left)-
The image (right) is shown.

One coordinate system is associated with each memory location of the switch point-storage device 62. As a result, each memory location can be addressed by coordinate values. The switch point-memory device 62 has a "width" (which depends on the size of the character pattern graphic and its rotational state), and the "height" of the exposure window 200 or search window 202, thus q memory rows _0. Have ~ q _-1 .

In the simplest case, the switching point-storage device 62 is constructed as a bit-map memory, that is to say that each memory location is associated with one image point or a switching point of a character rectangular figure. The points or switching points can be addressed by corresponding coordinate values. In a preferred embodiment for saving storage capacity, one 16-bit data word can be stored under each address. In this case, each 16-bit data word constitutes a 4 × 4 image point or switching point area according to the correspondence between the image point or switching point and the address. Switching point in coordinate system-Write required for marking switching point of character or pattern figure portion in storage device 62-Address sn, sn is X according to equation (1)
It is given from the image point-coordinates X ^* , Y ^* in the Y coordinate system by the equation (2) and in the UV coordinate system from the position of the character or pattern figure portion with respect to the actual position of the exposure window 200 or the search window 202.

In that case, the coordinate values X ′ ₀ and V _G −V _F −y ′ ₀ are the switching points −
In the memory device 62, each start address for the corresponding character or pattern figure portion is formed.

The geometrical relationships are shown in the graphical diagram of FIG. FIG. 7 shows a layout plan 201 having a search window 202 in the UV coordinate system having an origin 208. The search window 202 has a position (information) value V _F. In the search window 202 is shown an XY coordinate system 49 (FIG. 3) having a character rectangular graphic 45 and its origin 209. Point 210 coordinates X _'0, Y' one shows one starting point on the contour with a _0, the point 211 image points - coordinates X ^*,
Shows one interpolated dot with Y ^* , where The value V _G is the character base line 48 of the character square figure 45 in the UV coordinate system.
Indicates the coordinate value of. Also shown is a coordinate system having an origin 212 and associated with a switch point-memory device 62. The axis of the coordinate system coincides with the upper edge of the search window 202. The UV coordinate system associated with the layout plan 201 or the entire paper surface 29 is fixed in position, while the coordinate system moves together with the search window 202 or the exposure window 200.

The value sn given by equation (2) is checked for ₀ >sn> yq- ₁ and is accepted as the write address for the switch point-store 62, ie the calculated value sn is It is only so accepted if it is within the limit value ₀ , q _-1 which defines the height of the switch point-storage device 62 or the height of the search window 202. With such monitoring, the following is advantageously achieved, that is, among the detected switching points of one whole character, the switching points belonging to the pattern figure portion plunging into the search window 202 may be switching points-- Transferred into the storage device 62, which achieves rapid memory occupancy.

The structure of the switching point-storage device 62 will be described below.

The switch point-store 62 is a memory having two separate memory areas, or as in the embodiment, the address input 8
It has two separate partial memories 88,88 'with 9,89' and data inputs 91,91 '. The partial memories 88, 88 'likewise operate in an alternating manner (switching), i.e. the switching point of one character, the switching point of which has been detected and detected in the evaluation stage 21-the marking signal is in one partial memory. The switching point-marking signal of the preceding character, which has been written, but previously in the other partial memory, has already been read from the partial memory and is transferred into the video storage device 17.

A memory controller 93, 93 'and a multiplexer 94, 94' are assigned to each partial memory 88, 88 '. Depending on the instantaneous operating mode of the partial memory, the write addresses sn, sn on the address line 95 or the read addresses _{L 1} , _L on the address line 96 are switched by the multiplexers 94, 94 'to the address line 97 or 97'. Via the relevant memory control device 93, 93 'and from there via the address line 98 or 98' to the address input 89 or 89 'of the partial memory 88, 88'. The data output side 91, 91 'of the partial memory 88, 88' depends on the write or read operation of the partial memory 88, 88 '.
Guided to 6. Since the operation switching of each partial memory is performed after each switching point of one character is determined, the multiplexers 94, 94 ', and 99 are connected to the signal "pattern figure termination" on the line 71.
It is assumed that the reading of the other partial memory has already been completed. If not, switching is performed after the reading is completed.

The partial memories 88, 88 'are composed of, for example, a dynamic RAM unit.

The switching point on the address line 95-the write address sn, sn to the storage device 62 is fetched by the X address counter 101 and the Y address counter 102 (which is configured as a reversible counter) according to the equation (2). It

Transfer Input side 10 of the X address counter 101 start point coordinates X _'0 calculated in conversion stage 58 via a data line 100
3 and the start point coordinate Y ′ ₀ and the coordinate value (which represents the position of the pattern figure in question with respect to the search window 202) are transferred to the Y address counter 1 via the data line 100.
It is transmitted to the transfer input side 104 of 02.

The clock input sides 105 and 106 of the X address counter 101 and the Y address counter 102 are connected to the interpolation stage 60 via lines 107 and 108. Via lines 107, 108, the interpolation steps ± Xi, ± Yi carried out in the interpolation stage 60 are included in or calculated from the address counters 101, 102 according to their polarities. The counter state of the X address counter 101 directly forms the write address sn of the memory location to be called in the partial memory 88 or 88 'in each case.
The Y address counter 102 has an additional monitoring device, which allows the Y address counter 102 to be used only when
The actual counter state of the counter is transmitted as the write address n, that is, the counter state is the limit values ₀ and q described above.
It is transmitted only when it is between _-1 .

When the image point with the evaluation stage 61 is captured and detected as the switching point,
The switching point-marking signal is supplied from the evaluation stage 61 via the line 87 and one of the multiplexers 94 or 94 'to the memory controller 93 or 93' which is momentarily in a write operation, where the line 109 is present. Converted to the above write command. The write address sn, s called instantly based on the write command
Under n, the control stage 110 (which is connected to the data inputs 90, 90 'of the partial memories 88, 88') is used to indicate that the logic "H" is the switching point-marking for that switching point. As a signal, it is filed in the partial memory 88 or 88 'which is in the write operation state. In this way, the relevant partial memory 88
Or 88 'is switched to a read operation by the signal "pattern end" on line 71, all switching points of the character pattern or pattern part are marked in the partial memory 88 or 88'. Writing and reading pass in a read / correction / write (read / modify / write) cycle. During writing, the control stage 110 forms an EX / OR connection between the data already stored and the data to be input and stored.

In the fifth method step, the switching points-images which are respectively filed in the switching point-memory device 62 for the respective character pattern or pattern part are transferred line by line to the video memory control device 17, in which the next Up to such a time, a line of text or line 36 on the storage medium 29 is filed at a memory location corresponding to the position of the pattern or pattern portion, i.e. the switching points-images of all characters of the line. It is filed until it is rewritten. At the same time, the switching points--the switching points--the images rewritten from the storage device 62 (which include the switching points of the outer and inner contours of the pattern) are replenished to the following extent: the leading and trailing edges of the black image portion. All the picture points between the edges are represented by the video data "H" in the video storage device 17. This process is shown in FIG. Switching point-
Switching points stored in the storage device 62-the image is shown on the left side,
Occupied switching points-images filed in video storage 17 are shown on the right.

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the video storage device 17. The switching point-storage device 62, already detailed in FIG.
9 is shown again in FIG. 9 for clarity in order to make it easier to understand.

A coordinate system is associated with the memory location of the video storage device 17, so that each memory location can be addressed by a coordinate value.

The video storage device 17 is likewise configured in the preferred embodiment as a switching memory with two partial memories 111, 111 '. A switching point-marking signal from the switching point-memory device 62 is written in one of the partial memories 111 or 111 ', but video data is read out from the other partial memory as a control signal and supplied to the exposure unit 2.

The partial memories 111 and 111 'are similarly composed of a dynamic RAM unit, for example. Each partial memory 111, 111 'has the width of one complete image line 36 of the entire sheet 29, with p image points for each image line, and the height of q memory rows _{0 1} to q _-1 . In that case, the height corresponds to the height of the switching point-storage device 62 and the height of the exposure window 200 with the image line of q.
Therefore, the switching point-marking signals for the p.q image points can be stored in the partial memories 111 and 111 '.

In the simplest case, the partial memories 111, 111 'are likewise designed as bit-map memories.

In a preferred embodiment, under the respective addresses of the partial memories 111, 111 ', one 16-bit data word can be stored which contains the video data of 16 picture points which are aligned on one picture line.

The memory controllers 115 to 115 'and the multiplexer 11 are provided in the partial memories 111 and 111' having address input sides 112 and 112 ', data input sides 113 and 113', and data output sides 114 and 114 '.
6 to 116 'are assigned. Multiplexer 116,11
Depending on the instantaneous mode of operation of the partial memories 111, 111 'by means of 6', the write addresses _S and _S on the address line 117 are led to the corresponding memory controller 115 or 115 'or the read addresses _L , _L. (Which occurs in the synchronization stage 39), the address line 42 and the multiplexer 116,
It is led via 116 'to the corresponding memory controller 115 or 115'.

The switch point-address line 96 to this switch-store required for writing from the store 62 to the video store 17.
The address controller 120 forms the upper read addresses _{L 1} and _{L 2} , the write addresses _S and _S on the address line 117 to the video storage device 17, and the associated read and write instructions on the lines 118 and 119.

The address controller 120 produces the read addresses _L , _L for the switch point-store 62, the memory location being called for each memory row and for each picture point within each memory row, the character (first Only the address area corresponding to the actual pattern graphic surface 50 (FIG. 3) is called. Thus, only the memory location for which the information is actually stored is recalled, which advantageously reduces the transfer time of the switching point image. For the marking of the address areas, the address controller 120 is supplied with the changed length value of the pattern graphic surface 50 via the data line 68.

Calculation of write addresses _{S 1} and _{S 2} for the video storage device 17 will be described with reference to the graphical diagram of FIG. On the left side a, the XY coordinate system for the switching point-memory device 62 is shown, in which the character rectangular figure 45d is shown. On the right side b, the coordinate system of the video storage device 17 is shown. The switching point-images for the three character square figures 45a-45c of the text line 35 have already been written in the video storage device 17, and the switching point image for the fourth rectangle is transferred from the switching point-storage device 62. It is a thing.

In that case, start write address in U direction (line direction)
so is represented as follows.

so = o + ΣGB + VB (3) In that case, the start coordinate GB of the text line 35 on the entire sheet 29
₁ , GB ₂ , GB ₃ and GB ₄ are the respective full widths of the character pattern square figure 45, ΣGB is the sum of the full widths of all the already rewritten character pattern squares 45a to 45c ΣGB ₁ + GB ₂ + GB ₃ , VB is the front width of the character rectangular figure 45d to be rewritten in an instant. In that case, successive write addresses in the U direction from the start write address so are represented as follows.

s = so + _L consecutive write address in the _V direction _{S (perpendicular} to the image line direction) is as follows. _S = _L (5) The required value is supplied to the address controller 120 via the data line 68. The switching point-marking signal read out from the partial memory 88 or 88 'during the read operation via the data line 16 depends on the different configurations of the switching point storage device 62 and the video storage device 17 in the coding stage 121. The code is changed and supplied to another multiplexer 122. This data line 123,1
It is connected via 24 to the first data input 125,125 'of the two logic stages 126,126'. Logistic steps 126,12
The second data input side 127,127 'of 6'is connected to the data lines 128,12.
Data output side 114,11 of partial memory 111,111 'via 8'
4 ', while the data output side of the logic stage 126,126' is the data input side 113,1 of the partial memory 111,111 '.
It is connected to 13 '. In the logic stages 126, 126 ', the data to be written is advantageously already stored in the partial memories 111, 11'.
The data filed in 1'can be logically combined by, for example, an OR connection and transferred into the corresponding partial memories 126, 126 '. In the logic stages 126 and 126 ', the memory location existing between the two switching points is the video data "H".
Occupation is also performed as described above in FIG.

The data outputs 114, 114 'of the partial memories 111, 111' are led to another multiplexer 130 via the data lines 128, 128 ', the output side of which is the data line 131.
Is connected to the parallel / serial converter 132 via. In the parallel / serial converter 132, each 16-bit data word filed under the partial memory address is serially converted into 16 video signal values for 16 serial picture points on one picture line. The row of image point clocks T ₁ guided through the line 38 is counted in the U address counter 133, and the clock T ₂ supplied through the line 41 “End of image line” is the V address counter.
Included in 134. The U address counter 133 is reset by the clock T ₂ "end of line" in each case. The counter states u and v of both address counters 133 and 134 are the recording medium 29.
It represents the actual position of the upper light beam 20 '. Read address required to read video data from video storage device 17
_{L, L} is a counter state U, determined from V by the following equation _{L = u L = v-v} F (6) If the "v _F" is also indicative of the actual position of the exposing window 200 on the recording medium 29 ( (Fig. 2a). The synchronization stage 39 controls the reading of the video data as the video signal U _V for the exposure unit 2 from the partial memory 111 or 111 ′ being read.

The read address for the partial memory 111 or 111 'in the read operation state is transferred to the video storage device 17 via the address line 42.
Is supplied to.

The parallel / serial converter 132 is clocked via the line 135 by the dot clock train T ₁ , so that this converter delivers the individual image dots to be recorded synchronously with the recording. The pixel clock train T ₁ is divided by the dividing stage 136 at a ratio of 16: 1, and the divided clock train forms a read command for the partial memory 111 or 111 ′, which read line 137. Via video storage device 116. V address counter 134
Via the programming input 138, the partial memory 88,8
8'or 111,111 'are preset to the number q of lines that can be stored. The V-address counter 134 sends out a signal "memory switch" after every q preset lines, which is transmitted via the line 139 to the multiplexers 116,11.
Provided to 6 ', 123, 130, the partial memories 111, 111' are switched from a write operation to a read operation or vice versa.

FIG. 11 shows an example of the switching point of the character “H” (left side) filed in the video storage device 17 and the recording of the character “H” (right side) from the image on the recording medium 29 for each line. Show.

FIG. 12 shows a switching point-storage device in connection with the video storage device 17.
6 is a time diagram for explaining a time lapse in writing and reading operations of 62.

In order to make it easier to understand, in FIG.
Two alternating partial memories 88,8 of the storage device 62
8 ', and likewise alternating partial memories 111, 111' of the video storage device 17 are shown, in which case the multiplexer is shown symbolically as a mechanical switch.

At a time interval of t _{0 to} t ₁ , switching point marking signals of, for example, four characters are formed in the following manner with respect to the initial position of the exposure window 200 on the recording medium 29, that is, first of all. The switching point marking signal of the character is written in the partial memory 88. The length of the box shown corresponds to the duration required for the process, and the number entered in the box indicates which letter is exactly formed.

After the writing process for the first character is completed, the switching point-marking signal for the second character is written in the partial memory 88 '. Switching point of the first character during the writing time-the marking signal has already been read from the partial memory 88,
Written in 111. When the reading of the first character switching point-marking signal is completed, the second character switching point-marking signal is transferred from the partial memory 88 'into the partial memory 111 of the video storage device 17. This process involves switching points of all four characters-marking signals to video storage.
The process is repeated until the file is stored in 17 partial memories 111.

The required number of switching times for the partial memories 88, 88 'in the switch point-storage device 62 corresponds to the number of characters to be processed, the memory switches in the figure being marked by cross marks.

t ₁ ~t of five, for example with respect to the second position of the exposure window 200 in the second time interval of the _{two-character} switching point - marking signal is processed, the partial memory 88, 88 'at switching of the video storage device 17 It is transferred to the partial memory 111 '. On the other hand, the switching point-marking signal for the first position of the exposure window 200,
It is read from the partial memory 111 of the video storage device 17 and recorded.

In the third time interval t _{2 to} t ₃ , for example, for the third position of the exposure window 200, the switching point-marking signal of, for example, three characters is processed and transferred to the partial memory 111 of the video storage device 17, while the video The storage capacity is read from the partial memory 111 'of the storage device 17 and recorded. A memory switch for the partial memories 111, 111 'of the video storage device 17 is carried out at each new position of the exposure window 200.

In that case, the temporal control of the writing and reading operations is carried out as follows: from the switching point memory device 62 to the video memory device.
The time required to write the switching point-marking signal in one of the partial memories of 17 is smaller than the reading time of the other partial memory of the video storage device 17, which depends on the exposure speed.

FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of an interpolation stage 60 for streak and cyclic interpolation. The interpolation stage 60 is substantially an X counter 145, a Y counter 146, a F _X adder / subtractor 147, F _Y -an adder / subtractor, a comparator 149, two increment stages 150, 151, a F _X register, and a F _Y register. , Multiplexer 154, storage register 15
5. Control and logic stage 156.

For the theory of linear and circular interpolation, refer to the following documents.

1. “An improved algorithm for the generation of
non parametric curves ", IEEE transactions on compu
ters, Vol.c-22, No. 12, December 1973, No. 1052 to 106
Page 0; 2. “High-Speed algorithm for the generation of
straight lines and circular arcs ", IEEE transactio
ns of computers, Vol.c-28, No.10, October 1979,
Pages 728 to 736 The operation of the interpolation stage 60 is linearly interpolated along the linear portion 74 (Il
An example of (in) will be described with reference to FIG. For this purpose, a command for linear interpolation (Ilin) is first transmitted to the control and logic stage 156 via the line 66. The coordinate difference values X, Y of the straight line portion 74 between the start point 75 and the end point 76, which are calculated by the 2-complement display in the calculation stage 59 (FIG. 4), and the corresponding polarity (X
s and Ys) are connected to the X counter 145 and the Y counter via the line 69.
Loaded in 146. From those counters the polarity (Xs; Y
s) is supplied to the control and logic stage 156 from which the corresponding instructions (+/- Fx; +/- Fy) are added / subtracted 147,1.
This signal is transmitted to 48, and this instruction causes the adder / subtractor to switch to addition or subtraction. Coordinate difference value △ X, △ Y
Depending on the polarity (Xs; Ys) of, one of the four quadrants is represented. At the same time, the F _X register 152 and the F _Y register 153 are erased, and as a result, the error value Fn = 0.

Interpolation errors Fxn ₊₁ and Fyn ₊₁ are calculated according to this preset state. The error calculation depends on the displayed (marked) quadrant, and according to Fxn ₊₁ = Fn ± Δx and Fyn ₊₁ = Fn ± Δy, the addition of ΔX and ΔY to the error value Fn Alternatively, it is performed by subtraction. The control is always carried out as follows: one of the two calculations increases the error Fn and the other decreases it. In the first quadrant, for example, one adder / subtractor is adjusted to the adder operating state, while the other adder / subtractor is adjusted to the subtractor operating state. The error values Fxn ₊₁ and Fyn ₊₁ formed by the two adders / subtractors 147 and 148 are fed to the Fx register via the increment stages 150 and 151 (which are not activated in the case of linear interpolation).
152 and the Fy register 153, and is intermediately stored therein. The magnitude of error | Fxn ₊₁ |, | Fyn ₊₁ |
Compared to each other in 9. Comparison result (this is track 157
Control, supplied to the logic stage 156) via the interpolating step (± xi; ±
It is determined whether yi) is in the X or Y direction and in which polarity, the corresponding interpolation step is always performed in the direction of maximum error. Furthermore, by comparing the error values,
In the control and logic stage 156, two error values Fxn ₊₁ and Fy
Either of the n _{+ 1} error values Fn for the next cycle
Is determined. In that case, the determination is made as follows: the smallest error value Fxn ₊₁ or Fyn ₊₁ is always selected as the new error value Fn.
The selection of the minimum error value is done using multiplexer 154, which selects the select instruction (Fse
l) (this instruction is generated in the control / logic stage 156 and is intermediately stored in the storage register 155). Interpolation step performed (± Xi; ± Yi)
Are included in the X address counter 101 and the Y address counter 102 (FIG. 4) via the lines 72 and 73, and are used there for calculating the address for the switching point-memory device 62 as described above. Since the address counters 101 and 102 are not a constituent part of the interpolation stage 60, they are shown only by broken lines in the figure.

Due to the generation of the instruction "partial end" at the end point 76 (FIG. 5) of the straight line portion 74, first, the coordinate difference value ΔX,
ΔY is loaded into X length counter 161 and Y length counter 162 via programming inputs 159, 160. The executed interpolation step (± Xi; ± Yi) is included or calculated by the length counters 161 and 162 according to the polarity. The actual counter status of the length counters 161, 162 is monitored in the monitoring stage 163 for counter status "zero". If both counter states are "zero", the end point 76 of the straight line portion 74 has been reached and the monitoring stage 163 issues the command "partial end" on the line 70.

EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION Particularly high recording speeds and good recording quality are achieved by the method of the present invention. The above-described contour coding makes the processing of the coded pattern data into control instructions for each variant of every character pattern particularly simple, wherein the pattern data for each variant is stored separately. You don't have to. Furthermore, the processing is performed with a large resolution so that no distortion occurs.

The wording in the description of claims 1 and 2,
Explain lexical terms briefly.

(1) The control signal for the relatively movable recording mechanism represents the following signal.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1, it controls the exposure unit 2 which constitutes a recording mechanism which makes a relative movement with respect to the recording surface (the entire newspaper surface in the embodiment). It represents a video signal Uv which is a control signal (see the description of exposure unit 2 controlled by video signal Uv).

(2) How the size coefficient or scale reduction factor is determined from the size of the pattern to be recorded and the ratio with the desired recording raster will be described.

In the case of contour coding (Fig. 3), the contour is a straight line portion (5) in the coded raster (46) of one character (pattern).
3,55) and the circular portion (54,55). The position and length of the contour portion in the coded raster (46) are defined by the coordinate values X, Y in one XY coordinate system (49).

The dot-like and line-like recording of the character (FIG. 5) is performed by the recording raster (78), and the recording raster defines the distance between the image lines and the distance between the image points on the image line.
The coded raster (46) corresponds to the finest recording raster (78). FIG. 5 shows a recording raster (78) equal to the coded raster (46). If the recording raster (78) is coarser than the coded raster (46), the coordinate values X, Y of the contour
Must be changed by the following scale factor or scale factor. That is, it must be scaled by a scale factor corresponding to the ratio of the recording raster 78 to the coded raster 46. At the same time for further stored characters (in contrast)
When changing the scale of the character to be recorded (change in the size of the character), the coordinate values X and Y must additionally be changed according to the scale of recording. Therefore, the scale factor or scale factor depends on the recording scale factor and the ratio between the recording raster (78) and the encoding raster (46). Contour coding is described in detail on page 40, line 5 to page 43, line 5 of the present specification.

(3) What is each interpolation step (Xi; Yi) executed between each contour portion and the end point in the recording raster and its sum will be described.

Depending on the interpolation steps Xi and Yi in the recording raster (78), the following image points in the recording raster (78) are obtained, that is, the image points that approximate the contour portion as good as possible. The interpolation step is carried out for each contour part of a character between its start and end points, respectively. The above process is shown in FIG. 5 for the straight contour portion, and
See page 45, line 18 to page 47, line 16. As is clear from the above description, the above interpolation step (Xi, Yi) and its addition The expression (1) is used for obtaining the required image point coordinates in accordance with the expression (1).

(4) It is stated that each image point is marked as a switching point only when the direction change obtained before the successive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) is performed. Will explain what and how it will be judged, and what will happen if the prescribed direction change is not performed.

All the image points obtained by the interpolation (the image points represent individual contour portions of one character) are all necessary switching points (switching points) in the character contour (at the switching points, the exposure beam during recording is changed). It must be turned on and off). Therefore (in short), it is necessary to obtain the image points that form the related switching points, display the markings, and remove the image points that do not form the related switching points. This is especially
It is an image point located on the contour portion extending in the direction of the image line.

The vertical (relevant) switching point of interest is determined according to the invention as follows. That is, it is obtained by examining the directions of two successive interpolation steps in the recording raster (78). Here, each one image point located between two interpolation steps is marked and displayed as a related (attention) switching point in the following cases. That is, the 2
If the direction of one interpolation step satisfies a predetermined condition, in short, if there is a predetermined interpolation step-combination step with respect to the change of direction, it is marked as a relevant switching point. The marking display of the picture point determined as the relevant switching point takes place in the switching point-memory, for example as follows: a control bit is set at the corresponding memory location of the switching point. Of. See page 48, line 12 to page 51, line 4 of the present application.

The conditions are, for example, as follows: at least one of successive interpolation steps is vertical to the direction of the drawing line, and both interpolation steps are performed in the direction of character coding. If so, it is assumed that one switching point exists. (Drawing line = Fig. 6,
Horizontal lines at 8 and 11; coding direction = direction in which individual contour portions are connected to each other, for example, arrow in FIG. 5) See page 48, lines 1 to 11 of the present specification.

(5) Switching point-Write address for storage device (Xs: Y
I will explain how to calculate s).

The switching point-image (FIG. 6) of one character is temporarily stored in the switching point-storage device (62), where each memory location corresponds to one image point of the directional graphic (character) pattern (FIG. 3). Corresponding. One XsYs-coordinate system is assigned to the switching point-storage device (62), so that each memory location has no coordinates and can be addressed by the write addresses Xs and Ys. Switching point-storage device (62)
The write addresses Xs, Ys for are obtained for the following cases: one exposure window is used, where (claim 2) the description on page 53 (related to equation 2) is used. As also shown, the switching point--the write address for the storage device is the image point coordinate X, X of the square character pattern (FIG. 3).
It is given (calculated) by Y and the position (relationship) of the character pattern with respect to the respective position of the exposure window.

In case you do not use the exposure window (claim 1) for the equation (2), "V _G" and "V _F" is omitted.

s = X ' ₀ + Σx s = Y' ₀ + ΣY ₁ A method for obtaining write addresses Xs, Ys,
The details are shown in detail in the present specification, page 51, line 16 to page 55, line 9, line 7.

(6) It will be explained how the length of one memory line depends on the size of the pattern rotated as necessary.

The switch point-storage device (62) must be sized as follows: the switch point of an enlarged character pattern at the maximum enlargement (scale) -the size must be such that an image can be stored. I have to. Furthermore, in the case of character enlargement or italics, correspondingly more memory locations (memory locations, memory areas) are required in the direction of the stroke. This is clear, for example, when considering rotating the character pattern "H" in FIG.

(7) How to calculate the write address for the video storage device will be described.

Characters to be recorded in one line of text stored in the switch point-storage device (62) are transferred (transferred) for each drawing line in sequence, and the following video storage device ( 17) the position position, that is to say the position position of the video storage device corresponding to the position of the individual character pattern in the text line to be recorded. Equation (3),
The method for obtaining the write addresses Us and Vs of the video storage device (17) according to (4) and (5) is described on page 65, lines 3 to 6 of the present specification.
It is described in detail from the bottom of page 6, line 8 and FIG. When the write address Us in the direction of the drawing line or the text line is obtained, it is equal to the read address Y ₁ .

(8) How to calculate the calculated read address ( _L ; _L ) for the switching point-memory device will be explained.

Switching point-The read addresses X ₁ and Y ₁ for the storage device (62) are cyclically formed, because at the read address, at the time of transfer (transfer) of the switching point image, every image point and image line What geometric characteristics (shape) only for each
This is because the storage location (memory location, memory area) is called without considering the value. Description page 64, line 10-
See page 65, line 2.

(9) The meaning of “additionally occupy control bits in memory locations between memory locations that can be addressed in the row direction” will be explained.

Each switching point of one switching point image corresponds to one set control bit, and in other words the set state of the control bit means that the corresponding picture point should be exposed. One switching point image only shows the outline of one character pattern (left side in FIG. 8).

Since the picture points located in the contour are not defined (specified) with respect to the control bits, only the contour of the character pattern is exposed depending on the switching point image on the left side of FIG. However, since the character pattern portion located between the contours is also to be exposed (the right portion in FIG. 11), a corresponding control bit is assigned to the image point located between the contours. Specification page 6, lines 2-13.

(10) In the description of claim 8, it will be explained about what it means that the contour portion is a straight portion, a circular portion in the clockwise direction and a circular portion in the counterclockwise direction.

In the case of contour coding (FIG. 3), the contours of the character pattern are drawn in one coding raster (46) by the contour parts which are connected to each other in the set coding direction. The contour portion may be a drawing portion, a circle (shape) portion, or the like. When generating one character pattern from the contour-coded data, the character pattern is synthesized again from the contour parts which are connected to each other in the coding direction. In FIG. 3, the coding direction is indicated by an arrow. The coding direction may be clockwise (hand) direction or counterclockwise (hand) direction. Description page 39, line 15 to page 40
See line 13.

(11) What is a contour command in the description of claim 9, and a contour portion (straight portion; circle portion)
The following describes how to combine the two into one contour command.

For a detailed description of the contour command, see page 40, page 14 of the specification.
Lines to page 43, line 5.

(12) How the pattern memory, the coding device, the intermediate storage device and the video storage device are connected to each other and how they work will be described in the twelfth aspect of the present invention.

Corresponding to the block diagram of FIG. 1, the above-mentioned components are connected to one another.

(13) What is a corresponding interpolation step (Xi; Yi) for approximating the contour of a pattern or a pattern portion as well as possible is described in (4).

(14) Switching of the image points between two consecutive continuous interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) for recording mechanism control when the direction change previously defined in the consecutive consecutive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) is performed. Although it is described as marking as a point,
What is the defined change in direction and how is it determined? Also, what happens when the predetermined direction change is not performed is explained in (4).

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the principle of an apparatus for carrying out the method of the present invention, FIGS. 2a and 2b are graph charts for explaining an exposure window and a search window, and FIG. 3 is a graph of a character symbol square figure. Fig. 4, Fig. 4 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the video signal generator, Fig. 5 is a graph diagram for explaining interpolation, and Fig. 6 is a switching point-
Image diagram, FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an operation for obtaining an address, FIG. 8 is a diagram of another switching point image, FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of a video storage device, and FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the exposure, FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a time diagram, and FIG. 13 is a schematic circuit diagram of one embodiment of the interpolation stage. 1 ... control circuit, 2 ... exposure unit, 3 ... text data source, 4,7,9,11 ... data line, 5 ... text plane storage device, 8 ... character pattern memory

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── --Continued from the front page (56) References JP-A-58-134746 (JP, A) JP-A-57-39963 (JP, A) "bit" Vol. 13, No. 10 (September 1981-Volume 169) (Sho 56-9-1) Kyoritsu Shuppan Co., Ltd. 1218-1225

Claims (13)

[Claims] 1. A method for recording a pattern such as a character and a symbol, for example, a character for each image point and each image line on one recording surface during electronic typesetting, which is necessary for recording pattern data and position data. In the recording method, which is called from the text data that forms a typesetting command, and converted into a control signal for a recording mechanism that is relatively movable with respect to the recording surface, a) before recording, a) closing each pattern. Each of the contours drawn from the starting point on the contour is drawn by a contour part that is continuous in the circumferential direction around the contour, and the coordinates (X; Y) of the contour part-end point are converted into a rectangular figure of the pattern. Determined in the coded raster of the associated first coordinate system and stored as coded pattern data of a predetermined pattern size, at the time of recording b) pattern or pattern portion Coordinate of the start point for each contour of (X _0; Y ₀₎ and the contour portion - coordinates of the end points; the (X Y), from the ratio between the size and the desired recording raster and encoding raster to be recorded pattern C) changing the given scale factor or scale factor, c) for each successive contour portion of each pattern or pattern portion, the start point coordinates (X '₀; Y) varied by the relevant scale factor. ' ₀ ) and the sum of each interpolation step (Xi; Yi) performed between each contour portion and the end point in the recording raster, an image that approximates the contour portion in the recording raster as closely as possible. The point-coordinates (X ^* ; Y ^* ) are obtained according to the relational expression X ^* = X ' ₀ + ΣXi Y ^* = Y' ₀ + ΣYi, and d) the direction of successive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) is changed in the recording raster. Check that Only when the predetermined direction change of the interpolation step (Xi; Yi) is performed, each of the previously obtained image points between the above two consecutive sequential interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) is set as a control bit. A switching point for the control of the recording mechanism by means of: e) a switching point for receiving control bits, comprising a memory location and a memory line in the form of a bitmap-a storage device (62), Included address ( _S ,
_S ) is calculated from the image point coordinates (X ^* ; Y ^* ) of the image point marked as a switching point of one pattern or pattern portion and the position of the pattern or pattern portion to be recorded on the recording medium (29). Here, in the switching point-storage device, the length of one memory line depends on the size of the pattern rotated as required, and the switching point-storage device (62). Address controllable by the coordinate value (;) of the coordinate system (XY) belonging to the device (62), and f) by the calculated write address ( _S , _S ), The control bits of the part are sequentially written as switching points-images in the switching point-storage device (62), and g) read-out address (for reading each image point and image line from the switching point-storage device (62). _L ; _L ), and h) Write address ( _S ; _S ) to a video storage device (17) for receiving control bits, which is composed of memory locations and memory lines in the form of a bitmap.
The position of the pattern and the pattern portion on the recording medium (29) and the switching point-the read address of the storage device (62) (
_L ; _L ), where the length of one memory line in the video storage device (17) corresponds to the length of one image line, and the video storage device (1)
7) is the coordinate value (;) of the coordinate system (▲ ▼) belonging to it.
A) a pattern or pattern portion that is filed in the device (62) by means of the calculated read address ( _L ; _L ) for the switching point-storage device (62). Switching points-the control bits of the image should be read out point by point and line by line and recorded sequentially on the recording medium with the calculated write address ( _S ; _S ) for the video storage device (17). Sequential transfer to a memory location of the video storage device (17) corresponding to the position of each pattern or pattern portion in the text line, j) the switching point of the pattern or pattern portion-the control bit of the image, the video. Upon transfer to the corresponding memory location of the storage device (17), additionally between each memory location addressable in the row direction. Mori location also to occupy the control bits, k) read address for the video storage device (17) _(L;
Formed from v) in accordance with equation _{L = u L = v, l} ) read address _(L;; - a _L), the recording surface (29) instantaneously to the position of image points to be recorded on the coordinate values (u _L ), The control bits stored in the video storage device (17) are read out from the video storage device (17) and converted into control signals for the recording mechanism, so that the control signals define the respective operating connection duration or disconnection connection duration. A method for recording patterns such as characters and symbols characterized by the above. 2. A method of recording a pattern such as a character and a symbol, for example, a character on each recording surface at the time of electronic typesetting for each dot and each line, by calling pattern data and position data, In a recording method in which a control signal for a recording mechanism that is relatively movable with respect to the recording surface is converted, a) before recording, a) each closed contour of one pattern from each start point on the contour. Starting from the contour, the contour is drawn by successive contour portions in the orbiting direction, and the coordinates (x; y) of the contour portion-end point are coded raster of the first coordinate system associated with the rectangular figure of the pattern. And recorded as coded pattern data of a predetermined pattern size, and b) the recording surface (29) is sequentially recorded in each strip-shaped section area, where: One Is used as the exposure window (200), the width of the exposure window corresponds to the width of the recording surface (29) in the direction of the image line, and the height thereof is perpendicular to the image line. In the recording, the exposure window (200) is sequentially moved in the direction perpendicular to the image line by the amount corresponding to the height of the image on the recording surface. when the position of each case of on its recording surface (29) is to be indicated by the position coordinates (V _F), c) pattern or coordinate of the start point for each contour of the pattern portion (X _0; Y ₀₎ And each contour part-the coordinates (X; Y) of the end points are changed by a size coefficient or a scale factor given from the size of the pattern to be recorded and the ratio of the recording raster to the coded raster, and d) each pattern. Or each successive ring of pattern part With respect to the contour portion, each interpolation step (Xi; Yi) executed from the start point coordinates (X ′ ₀ ; Y ′ ₀ ) changed by the corresponding scale factor and between each contour portion and end point in the recording raster. The image point-coordinate (X ^* ; Y ^* ) that approximates the contour portion as good as possible in the recording raster from the sum of the relational expressions X ^* = X ′ ₀ + ΣXi Y ^* = Y ′ ₀ +) ΣYi, e) Check the successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) for the direction change in the recording raster, and carry out the direction change defined before the successive interpolation step (Xi; Yi). Only when the above-mentioned two consecutive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) are obtained, the previously determined image points are marked by the control bits as switching points for controlling the recording mechanism, and f) Bitmap Location and memory line in the form To the switching point-storage device (62) for receiving the control bit, the write address ( _S ,
_S) the relation _{S = X '0 + ΣX;} S = Vg-V F -Y' 0 + ΣY; calculated according to, however, V _F is the instantaneous coordinates of the exposure window (200), Vg is the recording surface (29 ) X ₀ and Vg-V _F -Y _'0 is the position coordinates representing the momentary position of the base line of the pattern or pattern portion on represents the start address of the respective said switching point - storage device (62) is the There are memory rows corresponding to the number of lines that enter into the exposure window (200), the maximum length of the memory rows depending on the size of the rotated pattern, if any, and the switching point The storage device (62) has a coordinate system (▲) assigned to the device (62) and the exposure window (200).
Address controllable by ▼), g) by the calculated write address _S , _S ),
The control bits of the pattern and the pattern portion are sequentially written as switching point = image in the switching point-memory device (62), and the pattern and pattern portion in the exposure window (200) at the respective window positions. Completely or partially, and h) a read address (X _L ;) for reading the control bit from the switching point-memory device (62) for each image point and image line.
Y _L ), and i) a video storage device (17) for receiving control bits of a pattern and a pattern portion corresponding to the width of the exposure window (200), said memory storage and memory row being in the form of a bitmap. ) To the write address ( _S ;
_S ) is calculated according to the relational expression _S = ₀ + ΣGB + VB + _{L S} = _L , where ₀ is the start of a text line on the recording surface (29), GB is the full width of the pattern rectangular figure, and ΣGB is the preceding pattern in one stroke or The sum of the total widths of the pattern portions, VB, is the front width of the actual pattern on the recording surface (29), where the video storage device (17) corresponds to the number of images entering the exposure window (200). Has a number of memory rows, the length of the memory rows corresponds to the image line length, and the video storage device (17) has a coordinate system (▲ ▼) associated with the video storage device (17). Addressable by means of the coordinate value (;) of the, j) the switching point-the read address ( _L ; _L ) calculated for the storage device (62) being stored in the device (62). Switching pattern or pattern part switching point-image control Of each pattern or pattern portion in a text line to be recorded on a recording medium in sequence by reading out a dot by dot and an image by line and writing addresses ( _S ; _S ) to the video storage device (17). At a memory location of the video storage device (17) which corresponds to the position of, and k) the switching point of the pattern or pattern part-the control bit of the image, the corresponding memory of the video storage device (17). When writing to a location, the control bits are additionally occupied in memory locations between each row-addressable memory location, and 1) the read address ( _L ;
The _L), formed in accordance with equation _{L = U L = V-V} F, except, U, V coordinates of image dot to be recorded instantly on the recording surface, V
_F is the position coordinate of the exposure window (200), and m) reads the control bit filed under the read address ( _L ; _L ) from the video storage device (17) and converts it into a control signal for the recording mechanism, A method for recording a pattern of characters and symbols, characterized in that the control signal determines the operating connection duration or the disconnection connection duration in each case. 3. A pattern or pattern portion partially or wholly within each exposure window (200) is defined by the position coordinates of the text data and the UV coordinate system (▲) associated with the video storage device (17). Exposure window (200) in ▼)
The recording method according to claim 2, wherein the detection is performed by comparison with the actual position data of. 4. At least one of successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) is performed in a direction perpendicular to the image line direction, and two successive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi).
The recording method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one image point is marked by a control bit as a switching point on the contour when the contour is circulated. 5. When transferring a switching point marking signal from the switching point storage device (72) to the video storage device (17), at the same time, a memory location of the video storage device (17) is occupied by a control bit, The occupied memory location is marked as the switching point on the leading edge of the pattern or pattern portion on the black image portion that intersects the image line, and on the trailing edge of the black image portion. The recording method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the recording method is located between the memory location and the memory location. 6. Use of a) a switching point-storage device (62) consisting of two partial memories (88, 88 ') working in a switching operation, b) a switching point of a pattern or pattern part-a control bit of an image. For rewriting from one of the partial memories to a video storage device (17) as a video signal, and c) at the same time, writing a control point of the subsequent pattern or pattern portion-image control bit into the other partial memory The recording method according to any one of claims 1 to 5. 7. A) a video storage device (17) comprising two partial memories (111, 111 ') which are switched, and b) a pattern to be recorded at a position of an exposure window (200) or The control bits of the pattern part are read out from one of the partial memories, and c) at the same time, the switching point of the pattern or pattern part to be subsequently recorded-the control bit of the image from the switching point-storage device (62) to the video storage device (17). 7. The recording method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the recording is rewritten to the other partial memory in (4). 8. The recording method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the contour portion is a straight line portion, a circular portion in the clockwise direction, and a circular portion in the counterclockwise direction. . 9. A contour command (a straight line part; a circle part) of the same model, which is successively continuous, is combined into one contour command, and the contour command gives data on the model of the contour model, and the coordinate value for each contour model is obtained. The recording method according to claim 8, wherein the recording method is included. 10. The coordinate values of the end points of the straight line portion are displayed for the straight line portion, and the coordinate values of the end points and the start point coordinate values of the circle portion are used for the circle center of the circle portion. A ninth aspect of the present invention in which the display is made relative to the point.
Recording method described in section. 11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each portion of the pattern that enters the exposure window (200) is recorded even at the actual position of the exposure window (200). The recording method according to item 1. 12. A device for recording a pattern, for example, a character for each dot and each line when electronically typesetting on a recording surface, a) a storage device (3; 5) for text data; and b) text data. A pattern memory (8) for a coded pattern data file, which is connected to a storage device (3; 5) for calling the coded pattern data; c) for converting the called coded pattern data into control bits A video signal generator (12); said video signal generator comprises a decoding device connected to said pattern memory (8) and an intermediate storage device for control bits, d) connected to said intermediate storage device A video storage device (17) for storing the control bits of the pattern, the video storage device corresponding to the position of the pattern on the recording surface (29). A recording mechanism (2) controlled by the control bit as a control signal; the recording mechanism being connected to the video storage device (17); and f) recording. An address control device (39) connected to the video storage device (17) for forming a read address for the video storage device (17) depending on the relative position of the recording mechanism (2) with respect to the surface (29), g) In a device having a movable record carrier (28) with respect to a recording surface (29), h) a pattern memory (8) for storing contour coded pattern data, said pattern data being of one pattern Starting from a starting point on each contour, each closed contour is drawn by a contour portion that is successively continuous in the circumferential direction around the contour, and the coordinate value of the contour portion-end point ( X; Y) and start point coordinates (X ₀ ; Y ₀ ) are stored in the contoured coded pattern data indicating in the coded raster, i) The above video signal generator (12) the decoding apparatus (57 to 59) is contoured coded pattern data, contours - end point coordinates; and (X Y), the starting point - coordinates; and (X ₀ Y _0), the length value of the corresponding And the coordinate and length values are changed by a predetermined magnitude factor, j) the intermediate storage of the video signal generator (12) is Switching point to switching point-storage device (62)
K) the video signal generator (12) has the following additional components: k1) is connected to the decoding device (57-59) and is the image in the recording raster. An interpolation stage (60) for obtaining the image point coordinates (X ^* ; Y ^* ) of the point; here, the image point can be formed by a corresponding interpolation step (Xi; Yi) on the contour portion of the pattern or pattern portion in the recording raster. A good approximation, k2) an evaluation stage (61) connected to the interpolation stage (60) above;
The evaluation stage checks the successive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) for direction changes, and when the previously defined direction changes of the successive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) are performed. It is configured to mark an image point between two consecutive successive interpolation steps (Xi; Yi) as a switching point for control of the recording mechanism, and k3) switching point-write address () for the storage device (62).
Address counters (101; 102), l) connected to a coding device (57; 58; 59), an interpolation stage (60) and a switching point-storage device (62) for the formation of _S , _S ). Decoding device (57) for forming the write address ( _S ; _S ) for the video storage device (17) and the read address ( _L ; _L ) for the switching point-storage device (62) when rewriting the control bits. 58; 59) and switching point-storage device (6
2) A pattern recording device for characters and symbols, comprising an address control device (120) connected to a video storage device (17). 13. The decoding device (57-59) comprises the following components a) -c): a) a decoder (57) for decoding pattern data, b) the relevant coordinates. 13. A conversion stage (58) connected to the decoder (57) for varying only a weighting factor, c) A calculation stage (59) connected to the conversion stage (58). A pattern recording device for the characters and symbols described in paragraph.