<title>Predictive model for color ink-jet printing</title>

Abstract

A predictive model for multi-colored halftone prints has been developed for inkjet printing. This model is based on the `n-modified' Neugebauer equations. For each substrate, the optimal value of n is determined through the optimization of gray levels prediction. Ink jet printing properties are taken into account by describing the shape of dots on grids. Overlapping of dots increases the number of `stackings' that can be obtained and contribute to the color of the pixel: for three inks, 27 stackings are used to describe the pixels. The colors of these stackings are measured on solid print patches. The model has been used to predict halftone color prints on different substrates such as plastic films, metal plates, and several varieties of paper. Its accuracy is estimated for each substrate with color test patches. The color differences (Delta) E between our predictions and measurements are given. The results demonstrate the importance of the parameter n and of the position of dots.