PPML Record Level Estimation for Post-Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In print jobs using personalized print markup language (PPML), the lack of clear rules for determining which element corresponds to a record level prevents processing in units of records, making it difficult to execute post-processing tasks such as stapling or punching.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that analyzes PPML data to estimate and set the record level by identifying candidate elements like JOB, DOCUMENT, and PAGE elements, and uses a parse tree structure to determine the record level based on element similarity and user selection, allowing for explicit notification of the record level to post-processing units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If PPML data is used for variable data printing, then printing efficiency and customization capability are improved, but the ability to perform record-level post-processing is lost due to lack of clear record element definition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (the analysis unit) that processes PPML data to identify and extract record-level elements. This intermediary translates the ambiguous PPML structure into clear record definitions that post-processing units can utilize, thereby maintaining both printing efficiency and post-processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the PPML data structure by identifying specific elements (such as JOB, DOCUMENT, or PAGE elements) as record-level units. This segmentation allows the system to treat each identified element as a discrete record for post-processing purposes, enabling record-level operations while preserving the overall printing workflow efficiency.
2Reliability
If existing record separation techniques are used, then processing can be performed when reference cycles are regular, but the techniques fail when reusable objects are referenced irregularly or drawing positions vary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic analysis approach that adapts to different PPML data structures. The analysis unit dynamically identifies record-level elements based on the specific characteristics of the input data, whether regular or irregular. This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain high record separation accuracy across various reference patterns and document structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the analysis parameters based on the input PPML data characteristics. Instead of using fixed rules, the system adjusts its identification criteria according to the specific structure, reference patterns, and element hierarchy present in the data, thereby achieving reliable record separation across diverse scenarios.
3Productivity
If automated record level estimation is implemented, then processing speed is improved, but user ability to confirm and correct estimation accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the analysis unit provides estimated record-level elements to the output unit, which can then confirm or correct these estimates. This feedback loop allows the system to maintain high processing speed through automated estimation while preserving the ability to improve accuracy through user verification and correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary automated estimation of record-level elements before final output, creating a preliminary version that can be reviewed and corrected. This preliminary action speeds up the initial processing while maintaining the option for accuracy improvement through subsequent user verification.
Data Source
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AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes record level display control means configured to control a display device to display, as an initial screen, a record level setting screen which includes a record level selection object for receiving, from a user, selection of a record level from a plurality of record levels including the record level estimated by the data analysis means and in which the record level estimated by the data analysis means is selected in the record level selection object, record level selection acquisition means configured to acquire a record level selected via the record level selection object in the record level setting screen, and notification means configured to notify post-processing means for performing post-processing subsequent to the print job of the record level acquired by the record level selection acquisition means.