Hybrid Print Server Architecture for Bandwidth Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems do not efficiently allow users to print documents from remote locations without requiring large data transfers over the internet, limiting access to various printing devices.
Innovation Solution
A document printing system comprising a remote server and local print servers that determine whether to send print jobs to a local queue or a global queue based on user device connectivity, prioritizing local printing to minimize internet data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cloud printing systems are used to allow remote printing, then users can print from any location, but relatively large amounts of data must be sent via the internet
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the printing architecture into local print servers distributed across different networks and a remote server. Print jobs are processed locally when possible, dividing the data transfer burden into smaller local segments rather than requiring complete data transmission over the internet.
Solution Approach 2:
Local print servers act as intermediaries between user devices and the remote server. These intermediaries enable local processing and caching of print jobs, reducing the need for direct internet data transmission while maintaining remote accessibility capabilities.
2Productivity
If local printing is prioritized by maintaining local queues, then printing speed and bandwidth efficiency improve, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The local print servers are designed to perform multiple functions: maintaining local queues for fast printing, communicating with the remote server for cloud-based job management, and providing user authentication. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring local print servers with queue management capabilities and authentication mechanisms before printing operations begin. This allows the system to handle both local and remote printing requirements without requiring complex real-time decision-making architecture.
3Loss of energy
If local print servers are used to reduce internet data transfer, then bandwidth usage decreases, but accessibility to printing devices from remote locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges local queue processing with remote server connectivity. Local print servers handle data locally to minimize bandwidth usage, while simultaneously maintaining communication channels with the remote server to enable remote job submission and management when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing system dynamically adapts its operation mode based on availability and requirements. Local queues are used when available for efficient processing, while the system can switch to or coordinate with remote server operations to maintain accessibility, creating a flexible hybrid architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A document printing system configured to print documents received from a user device. The system comprises a remote server and a first local print server. The remote server is configured to communicate with one or more local print servers located on respective local networks, including the first local print server. The remote server receives print jobs from remote user devices and to maintain a global queue of print jobs. The first local print server is coupled to a first local network and to an input device for receiving user instructions. The first local print server receives print jobs from user devices, maintains a first local queue of print jobs, processes print jobs from the global queue of documents, and instructs a printing device to print a document in accordance with a print job, based upon user instructions received at the input device. The system is configured to determine whether the first local print server is accessible by a user device issuing a print job and, based on the determination, send the print job to the first local queue or to the global queue.