Automated and semiautomated printmask generation for incremental printing

Abstract

One invention aspect forms a mask and matrix of corresponding backups for values in the mask, checks when a mask value is not working, and replaces only that value with only a matching matrix entry. A second matrix of further backups is best formed. Another aspect forms a mask as a matrix of stacks of matching entries for mask positions; selects an entry for each position from the matching matrix stack; and prints using the selected entry at each position. Another aspect forms a mask as a matrix of stacks of matching entries for mask positions, and rotates each stack to select an entry for each position. Another aspect forms a mask and a matrix of stacks of backups; finds nonworking mask values and replaces such values with backups from a matching stack. Another aspect forms a seminal mask, tiles it to make a larger one with related properties, and injects noise to disrupt tiling-caused regularity and form a less-regular mask.