Non-sequential PDF Data Transfer for Fast First Page Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PDF direct printing methods require the entire file to be transferred to the printer before rendering can start, leading to delays in first page out time and increased overall print time due to sequential data transfer and the need for additional hardware in conversion processes.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves parsing out the directory information block from the PDF file on the client computer and transferring it to the printer, followed by parsing and transferring data blocks in the appropriate sequence for rendering, allowing the printer to process data on the fly without waiting for the entire file to be transferred, using an intelligent PDF parser and memory allocation database to determine the next block to process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire PDF file is transferred sequentially to the printer before rendering, then the printer can process all data reliably, but the first page out time and overall print time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PDF file into multiple data blocks (e.g., directory information block, resource blocks, command blocks) and transfers them in a non-sequential order based on rendering requirements. This allows the printer to receive and process critical data needed for the first page without waiting for the entire file to be transferred, thereby reducing first page out time while maintaining processing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by transferring the directory information block first, which contains metadata about the PDF structure and rendering requirements. This preliminary transfer enables the printer to understand what data is needed next and can begin preparing for rendering before the complete file arrives, reducing the waiting time for first page output.
2Productivity
If an intermediate conversion process with a print server is used to reorder PDF data, then the PDF can be processed faster on the printer, but the data transmission time is doubled and additional hardware is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the printer to perform self-service by directly parsing and processing PDF data blocks in the correct rendering order without requiring an intermediate conversion server. The printer's controller includes a PDF parser that can independently reorder and process data blocks, eliminating the need for additional hardware while maintaining fast processing speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates the intermediary (print server) by implementing the data reordering function directly within the printer's controller. The PDF parser and memory allocation database work together as an integrated system within the printer, removing the need for a separate conversion server and reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the directory information block is transferred last in sequential order, then the file structure is maintained as-is, but the rendering process must wait for the entire file to be transferred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional sequential transfer order. Instead of transferring data blocks in the order they appear in the PDF file (with the directory information block last), the system transfers the directory information block first, followed by resource blocks and command blocks in a rendering-order sequence. This inverted transfer order enables the printer to begin processing immediately without waiting for the entire file.
Data Source
AI summary
In a PDF direct printing method, an intelligent parser is provided on the client computer to parse out and transfer to the printer blocks of PDF data in an order in which the data will be used by the PDF rendering process of the printer. The directory information block of the PDF file is transferred first, and the printer can start the rendering process soon after the directory information block is received, before the entire PDF file is transferred to the printer. The blocks of PDF data are stored on the printer, and the memory locations of the blocks of data stored on the printer are recorded in a memory allocation database. The PDF rendering process of the printer accesses the memory allocation database to obtain the memory location of the block of PDF data it will need next for rendering, and retrieves that block of data for processing.