Print Data Segmentation for Limited Buffer MFPs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inexpensive print apparatuses with small RAM memory capacity struggle to receive and process print data due to limited buffer capacity, which prevents them from handling large amounts of associated information effectively.
Innovation Solution
A print system comprising a multifunction peripheral (MFP), a job server, and a print data conversion server, where the MFP registers with the job server and communicates through a network to receive print information divided into smaller chunks, allowing it to process and print data even when the buffer capacity is limited by converting print target data into a format suitable for the MFP and storing it in a format that can be handled by the MFP's buffer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the print apparatus receives all print data and associated information at once, then complete print information is obtained, but the buffer capacity is exceeded causing data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The server apparatus divides print information into multiple segments, each containing a portion of the print data and associated information. The segmentation is based on the buffer capacity of the print apparatus, ensuring that each segment can be fully received and processed. This resolves the contradiction by allowing complete print information to be transmitted without exceeding the buffer capacity at any single point in time.
Solution Approach 2:
The server apparatus performs preliminary actions by pre-processing the print information into appropriately sized segments before transmission. It also pre-manages the associated information, storing and retrieving it as needed during the printing process. This preliminary preparation ensures that the print apparatus receives manageable data portions that fit within its buffer capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If the print apparatus has larger buffer capacity, then more print information can be received at once, but the cost and complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the buffer capacity of the print apparatus, the system segments the print information on the server side. This approach maintains the simplicity and low cost of the print apparatus while achieving the ability to handle large print jobs through systematic division of data into manageable chunks that fit within the existing buffer capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The server apparatus acts as an intermediary that performs the complex task of data management and segmentation. It handles the complexity of managing large print jobs, associated information, and transmission scheduling, while the print apparatus remains simple and cost-effective with its limited buffer capacity.
3Reliability
If the server stores all print data, then complete information is available, but the storage requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The server apparatus segments print information into transmission-ready portions and manages them efficiently in storage. Rather than keeping all raw print data indefinitely, it organizes data into segments that correspond to what can be transmitted in one go, reducing overall storage requirements while maintaining the ability to provide complete print information when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The server apparatus discards processed print data segments after successful transmission to the print apparatus, and recovers or retrieves only the necessary segments when new print jobs are received. This approach maintains data availability for active print jobs while reducing long-term storage requirements for completed jobs.
Data Source
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AI summary
An information processing apparatus (300) generates first location information about a location of at least a part of data as a target of predetermined processing and second location information about a location of location information corresponding to a part different from the part, and transmits the generated first and second location information to a processing apparatus which executes the predetermined processing for the data.