Dynamic Print Job Time Estimation for Roll Paper

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Solution Overview

Problem

In continuous feed printers, estimating the time needed to execute multiple print jobs allocated to one roll of rolled paper is inaccurate due to the influence of combined print jobs, leading to inconsistent transport speeds and potential image quality degradation.

Innovation Solution

An information processing system with a processor that dynamically adjusts the estimation of time needed to execute each print job based on variations in the combination of print jobs allocated to one roll of rolled paper, ensuring consistent transport speeds and optimizing print job scheduling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple print jobs are allocated to one roll of rolled paper, then the productivity is improved, but the measurement precision of print job execution time deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the estimated execution time of each print job based on real-time changes in the combination of allocated print jobs. The processor continuously updates the estimation by considering the transport speed determined by the minimum rasterization speed among all jobs on the same roll, enabling accurate time prediction despite changing job combinations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the actual combination of print jobs allocated to each roll and comparing it with the estimated execution time. The processor updates the estimation based on the determined transport speed, creating a closed-loop system that improves measurement precision while maintaining high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If the transport speed is kept constant for multiple print jobs, then the image quality is maintained, but the time needed to execute print jobs increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidtime needed to execute print jobs
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the parameter of transport speed dynamically based on the combination of print jobs allocated to each roll. The transport speed is determined by the minimum rasterization speed among all jobs on the same roll, allowing the system to optimize execution time while maintaining image quality through controlled speed variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system makes the transport speed dynamic rather than fixed, adjusting it according to the specific combination of print jobs. This allows the system to minimize total execution time by selecting optimal speeds for each job combination while still maintaining quality standards through controlled speed changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of time

If the transport speed is adjusted according to print job combinations, then the time needed to execute print jobs is reduced, but the image quality may be degraded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime needed to execute print jobsVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the transport speed parameter dynamically based on the combination of print jobs, using the minimum rasterization speed among all jobs on the same roll as the determining factor. This ensures that speed adjustments are made in a controlled manner that balances time reduction with image quality maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces rigid mechanical speed control with a flexible software-based estimation and control mechanism. The processor calculates and adjusts transport speeds based on computational analysis of job combinations, allowing more precise and adaptable speed control that balances time and quality requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11175866B2Information processing system and non-transitory computer readable medium for dynamically estimating print time for print jobs on a roll of paper
Publication Date: 2021.11.16 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP
  • US11175866B2 patent drawing
  • US11175866B2 patent drawing
  • US11175866B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing system includes a processor configured to dynamically change an estimation of a time needed to execute each print job in accordance with variations in a combination of print jobs allocated to one roll of rolled paper.