Parallel Print Workload Planning Across Networked Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses take a long time to complete print jobs, especially those with multiple pages, due to limited network connectivity and resource utilization inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with an artificial neural network (ANN) that determines whether to perform parallel printing and generates a workplan to distribute print jobs across multiple connected devices based on load, speed, and failure rates, optimizing the distribution of print tasks among available resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single image forming apparatus prints a multi-page job, then the printing process is simple and reliable, but the printing time becomes excessively long (several minutes)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the print job into multiple independent page segments and distributes them across multiple image forming apparatuses. Each apparatus prints specific pages in parallel, transforming a sequential printing process into a parallel one. This segmentation enables the system to print multiple pages simultaneously, dramatically reducing total printing time while maintaining simplicity through automated job division.
2Productivity
If multiple image forming apparatuses are used for parallel printing, then printing time is reduced, but system complexity increases due to need for workload distribution management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated workload distribution where the system automatically determines which pages to assign to which apparatuses based on real-time status information. The workload distribution manager autonomously monitors apparatus availability, prints completed pages, and reassigns pages without manual intervention. This self-service mechanism reduces operational complexity while maintaining high productivity through intelligent automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the status of each image forming apparatus (available, printing, idle) and uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust page assignments. When an apparatus finishes printing, the system receives feedback about its new status and automatically reassigns pending pages. This feedback loop enables adaptive workload distribution that optimizes printing throughput while managing complexity through automated response to system state changes.
3Productivity
If pages are distributed across multiple apparatuses, then printing time is reduced, but network resource utilization must be optimized to avoid inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of page distribution strategy based on network conditions and apparatus availability. The system monitors network status and adjusts which pages are assigned to which apparatuses accordingly. When network resources are available, it distributes more pages across more apparatuses; when network load is high, it consolidates to fewer apparatuses. This parameter adaptation optimizes both printing speed and network resource utilization, preventing waste while maintaining productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A image forming apparatus is configured to manage parallel printing of a print job, by performing the steps of: retrieving a request to print the print job; determining a network availability of one or more other image forming apparatuses connected to a network; generating a workplan for distributing the print job across a plurality of image forming apparatuses based on (1) print job information, including one or more of: the number of pages, the storage size, and a speed requirement assigned to the print job, and (2) image forming apparatus information, including one or more of: respective loads on, print speeds of, specific capabilities of, and failure rates of the plurality of image forming apparatuses; dividing, according to the workplan, the print job into a plurality of constituent print jobs; and transmitting one of the plurality of constituent print jobs to one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses.