Influence of raster structure on moir formation in color printing

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Яценко Л. О., Кулішова Н. Є., Дейнеко Ж. В. № 1 (89) 149-164 Image Image

The article explores the influence of input and output image parameters in digital design tools on the resulting artistic expressiveness in graphic design, particularly in the context of print production. With the increasing integration of printing technologies and digital workflows, designers must navigate both creative and technical domains. The ability to reproduce illustrations with high aesthetic quality depends significantly on understanding the physical and optical properties of images at each production stage—from digital preparation to the printing process.

A key issue examined is the formation of moiré patterns, a common visual distortion caused by the overlapping of periodic halftone structures. The paper investigates strategies to minimize this effect through the use of different rasterization methods. Specifically, it analyzes amplitude-modulated (AM) screening, characterized by regular dot patterns with variable size, and frequency-modulated (FM or stochastic) screening, which uses equal-sized dots distributed irregularly. Each approach affects tone reproduction, image sharpness, and color quality in different ways.

The study highlights that AM screening offers stability, cost-efficiency, and opportunities to adjust screen ruling and dot geometry, while FM screening provides superior tone gradation, eliminates moiré artifacts, and achieves high-quality results even on lower-grade paper. The coexistence and development of both methods reflect the technological diversity of modern printing practices. Importantly, the paper emphasizes the creative advantages for designers who understand these techniques. Knowledge of halftone principles allows professionals not only to prevent technical defects but also to intentionally shape the visual impact of printed works.

The article is relevant for graphic designers, print technologists, and specialists involved in prepress and color separation who seek to enhance the artistic quality and technical reliability of printed materials.

Keywords: rastering, raster, raster dot, moire, rosette-like moiré, amplitude-modulated rasterization, frequency-modulated rasterization

doi: 10.32403/0554-4866-2025-1-89-149-164


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