Cloud Print System Mediator for Multi-Service Job Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cloud printing services do not facilitate cooperation between multiple cloud printing services, leading to increased user complexity and inconvenience when managing print jobs across different services.
Innovation Solution
A cloud print system and method that enables cooperation between multiple cloud printing services by allowing users to manage print jobs through a unified interface, eliminating the need to designate print jobs individually for each service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cloud printing services are operated independently, then each service can be managed separately, but users must designate print jobs in each service which increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mediator device that acts as an intermediary between the user's terminal and multiple cloud printing services. This mediator receives print jobs from the user, automatically selects appropriate cloud printing services, and manages the printing process without requiring user intervention in each service. The mediator translates user requests into service-specific commands, resolving the contradiction by maintaining multi-service capability while simplifying user operations through automated service selection and job management.
2Reliability
If users manually manage print jobs in each cloud printing service, then precise control over each service is achieved, but time and operational effort are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The mediator device implements self-service functionality by automatically managing print jobs across multiple cloud printing services without requiring continuous user intervention. The system autonomously receives print jobs, selects appropriate services, monitors printing status, and handles errors. This self-service approach maintains reliable job management control while significantly reducing the time users need to spend on manual service management.
Solution Approach 2:
The mediator device performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring service selections, establishing connection parameters, and preparing job routing rules before printing operations begin. This preliminary setup enables the system to automatically and efficiently manage subsequent print jobs without requiring users to repeatedly configure services or make decisions during the printing process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cloud printing services operate without cooperation, then service independence is maintained, but system functionality and user convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complex multi-service printing system into distinct functional modules: a user interface layer, a mediator management layer, and individual cloud printing service layers. Each module operates independently with well-defined interfaces, allowing services to cooperate through standardized communication while maintaining their independence. The mediator segment coordinates between layers, enabling service cooperation without creating monolithic complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cloud print system comprising a first cloud print server (102) and a second cloud print server (904); wherein the first cloud print server comprises: managing means (913) for managing a second virtual printer (922) of the second cloud print server in association with a first virtual printer (920) of the first cloud print server, storing means (607) for storing a print job (960) submitted (961) to the first virtual printer in one or more first memory devices (505) in association with the first virtual printer, and transmitting mean for transmitting (966) the print job stored in association with the first virtual printer to the second virtual printer according to an instruction from a user (953).