Abstract: Apparatus for assembling images together in which each image is defined by respective pluralities of sets of data values, each set corresponding to a group of pixels of the image, the groups being arranged in a regular array across the image whereby the sets of data values can be obtained from sets of first data each defining the color content of an image pixel in the group. The apparatus comprises a control system for determining the position of a first image relative to a second image in a desired assembled image; an assembled image store; and a modified image store. The control system is operable to convert the sets of data values of the overlapping groups of pixels defining a region of the assembled images which overlaps and which is to be retouched into the corresponding sets of first data, consolidating the converted sets of first data into an assembled set of data, modifying the assembled set of data as desired, and storing the modified, assembled data set in the modified image store.

Abstract: A method of generating a composite image on a record medium at a first resolution resulting from two subsidiary images defined by pixels at a second resolution lower than the first. The method comprises generating an array of control data at the second resolution, the control data indicating the relative locations of the subsidiary images in the composite image at the first and second resolutions, generating data defining the composite image at the second resolution under the control of the control data, interpolating the second resolution composite image up to the first resolution, the relative locations of the subsidiary images at the first resolution being determined in accordance with the control data, and causing the first resolution composite image to be recorded on the record medium.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a representation of a half-tone image including areas of different resolution. The apparatus comprises stores (2, 26) for storing digital color data representing color density information at low and high resolution respectively. A second store (25) stores spatial data indicating the type of image data to be used at each position on a record medium (7). A third store (2') is provided for storing half-tone dot information. A group of six light modulators (10) which generate six scanning beams are arranged side-by-side. A support (8) supporting the record medium (7) to be exposed to the scanning beams is provided while drive motors (6',9') cause relative movement between the support and the scanning beam.