Distributed Global Object Cache for Print Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Print systems face inefficiency in processing high-resolution images due to repetitive processing of the same images throughout a print job, as not all data streams utilize image caching mechanisms effectively.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a caching mechanism within a control unit of a printing system that searches for and retrieves processed images from a local cache or shares them globally among compute nodes, performing raster image processing only if the image has not been previously received, thereby reducing redundant computations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the same high-resolution images are processed repeatedly throughout a print job, then the print job can be completed, but processing overhead and computation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs image processing in advance and stores the processed results in a cache. When the same image is encountered again during the print job, the pre-processed image is retrieved from cache rather than being re-processed, thereby eliminating redundant computation and reducing processing overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates and stores copies of processed images in a cache memory. Instead of re-processing the original high-resolution images multiple times, the system retrieves cached copies of the processed images, which significantly reduces the computational burden and processing time for repeated images.
2Reliability
If image processing is performed for every image in the data stream, then all images are rendered correctly, but redundant processing of repeated images increases computation intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where processed images are stored in a cache and the system checks this cache before processing new images. When an image is encountered that has already been processed, the system retrieves it from cache, thereby avoiding redundant computation while ensuring that the same reliable processed output is delivered.
Solution Approach 2:
By pre-processing images and storing them in cache, the system ensures that when the same image appears again, the already-verified processed version can be used, maintaining rendering accuracy while avoiding the need to repeat the computationally intensive processing operations.
3Productivity
If a cache mechanism is implemented to store processed images, then processing efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cache as an intermediary component between the image processing unit and the output. This cache acts as a buffer that stores processed images, allowing the system to efficiently retrieve and reuse processed images without requiring complex re-processing logic, thereby managing system complexity while improving efficiency.
4Loss of time
If processed images are cached for reuse, then redundant processing is reduced, but memory resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-processes and caches images that are likely to be reused during the print job. By anticipating which images will be needed and preparing them in advance, the system reduces redundant processing time while using memory resources only for images that provide actual reuse benefit, optimizing the trade-off between time savings and memory consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed. The method includes receiving an object at a first image transform within a control unit, the first image transform searching for the object in a local cache, retrieving the object from a second image transform upon a determination that the object been previously received at the control unit and processed at the second image transform; and the first image transform performing a raster image process on the object upon a determination that the object has not been previously received at the control unit.