Print Job Control via Post-Processing Die Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

In image forming systems, the replaceability of post-processing dies leads to issues where designated crease or punching processes are not performed correctly, resulting in undesired outputs due to incorrect die mounting, such as saddle book binding being executed without crease processing when a punch die is mounted instead of a crease die.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that communicates with an image forming apparatus and a post-processing apparatus, determining whether the correct post-processing device is mounted before transmitting print jobs, and either canceling or storing the job if the incorrect die is detected, thereby preventing incomplete processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the post-processing apparatus allows replaceable dies to be mounted for different processing functions, then the adaptability and versatility of the system is improved, but the reliability of executing the designated post-processing correctly deteriorates due to potential incorrect die mounting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to perform different post-processing functionsVSAvoidaccuracy of executing designated post-processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The post-processing apparatus includes a die detection unit that automatically detects which die is mounted and provides feedback information to the control unit. The control unit then determines whether to execute the print job based on this feedback, ensuring that the mounted die matches the required post-processing type. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates reliance on manual user configuration and prevents incorrect execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the image forming apparatus starts print processing even when the correct post-processing device is not mounted, then the productivity and speed of the system is improved, but the manufacturing precision of the post-processing deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of print job executionVSAvoidaccuracy of post-processing execution
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs die detection and verification before the print job is executed. The control unit determines in advance whether the mounted die is appropriate for the required post-processing, and only allows job execution when the conditions are met. This preliminary verification ensures manufacturing precision is maintained while minimizing delays, as the check is automated and integrated into the job submission workflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10577212B2Information processing apparatus for controlling execution of print job in which post-processing is designated
Publication Date: 2020.03.03 CANON KK
  • US10577212B2 patent drawing
  • US10577212B2 patent drawing
  • US10577212B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus that transmits a print job to an image forming apparatus configured to start print processing upon receiving a print job even in a state where a post-processing device corresponding to post-processing designated in the print job is not mounted on a post-processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus is configured to receive information about the post-processing device from the image forming apparatus, transmit based on the received information the print job to the image forming apparatus when determining that the post-processing device corresponding to the post-processing designated in the print job is mounted on the post-processing apparatus, and not to transmit the print job to the image forming apparatus when determining that the post-processing device corresponding to the post-processing designated in the print job is not mounted on the post-processing apparatus.