Print Conversion Utility for Non-Standard Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing OS-standard printing function cannot be used in print apparatuses that do not support it, leading to improper processing when the printing functions between different print modules do not match, resulting in increased processing load and storage occupation.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves obtaining print data and settings from a first print module, assessing the print apparatus's capabilities, and converting the data and settings to match the apparatus's capabilities for proper output, using a print conversion utility that interconverts protocols to enable OS-standard printing functionality in non-supporting devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a print conversion utility is used to enable OS-standard printing function in non-supporting print apparatus, then compatibility is improved, but processing load and storage occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by obtaining capability information from the print apparatus in advance (before actual printing). The control unit stores this capability information and uses it to pre-determine appropriate print settings and data formats, avoiding the need for complex real-time conversion processing during actual printing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the OS-standard print module and the non-compatible print apparatus. It receives print data from the OS-standard module, references stored capability information, and generates appropriately converted print data that matches the print apparatus's capabilities, thereby reducing the processing burden on both the OS and the print apparatus.
2Manufacturing precision
If print data is converted to match print apparatus capabilities, then printing accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs capability assessment and determines appropriate print settings in advance, before actual printing occurs. By storing capability information and pre-determining conversion parameters, the system avoids time-consuming real-time analysis during the printing process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit creates a simplified copy of the print data that matches the print apparatus's capabilities rather than performing complex real-time transformations. This approach maintains printing accuracy while reducing processing time by preparing the appropriate data format beforehand.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling an information processing apparatus to convert data received from a first print module into data appropriate for a print apparatus not supporting the first print module comprises the steps of obtaining first print data and first print setting from the first print module as a first obtainment step, and changing the first print data and the first print setting according to whether the first print data is raster data or vector data and whether or not the first print setting includes setting of collation printing for printing in a collated manner. Data based on the changed first print data and first print setting is output to the print apparatus.