Hewlett-Packard Company

Carmalyn Lubawy

Dale R Davis

Craig S Huston

Said Zamani-Kord

Bruce E Mortland

Steven B Elgee

David M Hall

Glenn T Gentile

Steve Elgee

Mark Flores

A technique for efficiently using media-type identifier code on print media and for processing that code, once read, to select the appropriate print mode for a printer that is to print onto that media. The system of the present invention minimizes the number of bits of data that must be associated with (hence, marked on) a sheet of print media to convey adequately the information as to the type of media, and is inherently backwards compatible. The invention uses simplified encoding and algorithm processing, which, in a preferred embodiment, includes a look-up table for storing known media-type code with associated print modes. A distance algorithm is used for locating the most appropriate print mode for given media-type identifier code that is not found in the table.

Media-type encoding and print mode selection

A print medium with encoded data and a print media detection system for use in detecting at least one characteristic of the sheet of print medium based on the encoded data are disclosed. The encoded data is designed to minimize its visual perceptibility. The print media detector is designed to recognize various characteristics of print media based upon the encoded data and transmit information regarding these characteristics to a printing device so that one or more operating parameters of the printing device can be adjusted to help optimize print quality for the particular characteristics of a particular print medium. A printing device including the print medium and print media detection system is also disclosed. A method of detecting one or more characteristics of print media used in a printing device is additionally disclosed. Further characteristics and features of the print medium, print media detection system, printing device, and method are described herein, as are examples of various alternative embodiments.

Print media and method of detecting a characteristic of a substrate of print media used in a printing device

A system and method for controlling image transfer device operations through use of sensed indicia disposed on at least one edge of the image transfer medium. A signal responsive to the sensed indicia is produced and transferred to a control signal. The control signal is recognizable by the image transfer device for controlling print operations, thereby configuring the device for the specific media being utilized. In a preferred embodiment of the invention indicia are placed on the four edges of the media. The indicia can be in the form of a bar code encoding such information as brand, media type, orientation, and size. Preferably the indicia include nonvisible, fluorescing ink.

System and method for controlling an image transfer device

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Vancouver, WA, United States of America

Carmalyn Lubawy