Variable Information Print Job Decomposition for Parallel RIP Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed printing of large variable information print jobs is bottlenecked by RIP processing time, as existing techniques are inefficient in splitting and processing these jobs across multiple print engines, especially in scenarios like bill printing where time is limited.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that automatically decompose large variable information print jobs into sub-container files, distributing them across multiple printers with shared resource files, allowing for efficient printing and easy reprocessing of partial jobs without returning to the originating application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large variable information print job is sent to a single printer, then the job can be printed without complexity in job splitting, but the printing time exceeds the allowed window and productivity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a large variable information print job into multiple smaller sub-jobs that can be distributed across multiple printers. The system automatically segments the print data stream and manages the distribution, thereby increasing productivity through parallel processing while avoiding the complexity of manual job splitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that acts as a bridge between the originating application and multiple printers. This intermediary automatically manages the complex tasks of job segmentation, data distribution, and coordination, thereby enabling high-speed printing across multiple devices without requiring the user to directly handle the complexity of job splitting.
2Loss of time
If the print job is split into multiple segments for parallel processing, then RIP processing time is reduced and productivity increases, but the system complexity increases due to multiple print engines and coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the print job into multiple independent or semi-independent portions that can be processed in parallel by different RIP engines. This segmentation reduces the RIP processing time for each individual segment while maintaining overall job integrity through proper management of variable data portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal print job structure that can be processed by multiple RIP engines simultaneously. By designing the job format to be universally compatible and self-contained with necessary resources, the system enables parallel processing without requiring complex customization for each printer, thereby reducing system complexity.
3Productivity
If variable information print jobs are automatically decomposed and distributed across multiple printers, then printing time is reduced and productivity increases, but the device complexity and resource management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by automatically decomposing the variable information print job into sub-jobs and pre-distributing necessary resources to multiple printers before the actual printing process begins. This preliminary preparation enables high-speed parallel printing while simplifying resource management, as the distribution is automated and completed in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the print job structure includes embedded resource information that enables automatic resource management and distribution. The system uses self-contained job formats with embedded resources or resource pointers, allowing the printing system to automatically manage resources without complex external coordination, thereby increasing productivity while controlling complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A print job management method and system receive variable information print instructions in a container file. The container file includes print files and resource files. The method/system decomposes the container file into multiple sub-container files and processes the sub-container files through at least two print engines. In additional embodiments, the method/system can reprocess less than all of the print files if there is a need to reprint any portion of the original print job. In one embodiment, the sub-container files each comprise a subset of the print files and all of the resource files. In a different embodiment, the resource files are stored on a shared resource and the sub-container files only comprise a subset of the print files.