Adaptable Printer Driver Framework for Dynamic Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printer drivers are inflexible and require specific compilation for processor architectures, leading to a need for numerous drivers for different combinations of printer brands, models, operating systems, and architectures, which are often managed by hardware vendors with limited expertise in developing drivers for diverse systems.
Innovation Solution
A framework that allows printer drivers to be modified and supplemented over time by automatically acquiring configuration data from various sources, including the printer device and online sources, and incorporating it into the driver, enabling enhanced features and capabilities without user intervention, while resolving conflicts using scripting languages that can execute across different architectures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a printer driver is compiled specifically for a particular processor architecture and operating system combination, then reliability and performance are improved, but adaptability deteriorates as numerous driver versions are needed for different systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal printer driver framework that can operate across multiple processor architectures and operating systems. The driver uses a configuration file-based approach with scripting language (e.g., JavaScript) that can be executed by a universal runtime environment, allowing the same driver code to serve multiple platforms without requiring architecture-specific compilation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a configuration file and scripting language layer as an intermediary between the printer driver and the printer device. This intermediary layer handles architecture-specific variations, allowing the core driver logic to remain universal while adapting to different systems through the configurable script layer.
2Manufacturing precision
If configuration files are hard-modified and re-tested for each printer model, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates as the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static, hard-coded configuration files into dynamic, programmable configurations using scripting languages. Instead of manually editing and re-testing configuration files for each printer model, the system uses executable scripts that can be automatically generated, modified, and tested, making the driver development process more flexible and easier to maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables configuration parameters to be changed programmatically through scripting language commands rather than requiring manual file editing. This allows for automated configuration generation and modification, reducing the complexity and time required to adapt drivers for different printer models while maintaining configuration precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a printer driver includes extensive functionality for all possible printer features, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases making the driver harder to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the printer driver functionality into modular components: a core driver framework, configuration files, and executable scripting language programs. Each segment handles specific aspects of printer operation, allowing for independent development, testing, and maintenance. The scripting language programs can be selectively enabled or disabled based on the specific printer model, reducing overall complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of the invention provide techniques whereby a printer driver may be modified and supplemented over time. For example, a framework may be provided which enables a printer driver's functionality to be supplemented over time to include new and/or enhanced features, such as features relating to the manner in which the capabilities of a printer are configured, print settings are manipulated, information is presented to users, print-related system events are handled, etc. In some embodiments, one or more components (which may be included in a print subsystem provided by an operating system of a computing device, in a printer driver, and/or some other system element) may be configured to automatically seek and acquire configuration data from any of various sources, including the printer device, one or more online sources, and/or other sources.