Dynamic Color Correction for Printer Job Bias
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Solution Overview
Problem
When distributing jobs to multiple image forming apparatuses, existing systems face issues with job bias, leading to underutilization of some apparatuses and decreased productivity due to fixed color correction targets.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus dynamically adjusts color correction targets for each image forming apparatus based on job distribution bias, using a bias determination module, color correction target decision module, and color adjustment timing decision module to optimize usage and productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If color correction targets are fixed for each image forming apparatus, then image quality can be maintained according to customer requirements, but job distribution becomes unbalanced causing underutilization of some apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the color correction target dynamic by allowing it to change over time based on job distribution status. The system dynamically switches between a first color correction target (for excellent image quality) and a second color correction target (for broader compatibility) depending on whether the apparatus has received jobs recently, thereby adapting to varying workload conditions to balance image quality and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of color correction target based on the timing since the last job reception. By using a timing determination unit to track when jobs were last received and comparing it against predetermined thresholds, the system adjusts the color correction target parameter to optimize both image quality and apparatus utilization according to current workload conditions.
2Productivity
If jobs are distributed to multiple image forming apparatuses, then productivity is improved, but job concentration on specific apparatuses occurs due to fixed color correction targets
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts color correction targets based on job distribution patterns and timing information. By making the color correction target adaptable rather than fixed, the system can respond to changing workload conditions and prevent permanent job concentration on specific apparatuses, thereby improving overall system adaptability while maintaining productivity benefits.
3Manufacturing precision
If image forming apparatuses are selected based on customer-required image quality, then excellent image quality is achieved, but some apparatuses remain unused due to job bias
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic selection of color correction targets based on the timing since last job reception. Apparatuses that have not received jobs for extended periods switch to a second color correction target that is more compatible with a broader range of jobs, making them more attractive for job assignment and thus improving utilization while maintaining image quality for apparatuses actively in use.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus of the present invention determines whether or not there is a bias in jobs distributed to a plurality of printers to be used in a distributed printing system. In addition, in a case where there is a bias in distributed jobs, the information processing apparatus decides a color correction target to be applied to a printer having a small number of distributed jobs and resulting in an unused state, applies the decided color correction target to the printer having a small number of jobs, to thereby decide a timing of performing color adjustment on the printer having a small number of jobs. The printer having a small number of jobs and resulting in an unused state is subjected to color adjustment at the decided timing.