Print Job Generation for Alternative Post-Processing Options
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing print job generation systems cannot notify users about the availability of post-processing options across the entire print system, as they only consider the in-line finisher and do not account for alternative post-processing devices in the network, leading to incomplete information for users.
Innovation Solution
A print job generating program and system that includes a setting unit and a print job generating unit, which allow users to set alternative post-processing options for devices within the print system environment, considering both in-line and near-line finishers, and enabling the selection of available post-processing functions from any device in the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the image forming device only considers the in-line finisher status when generating print jobs, then the device complexity is reduced, but the information completeness for users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming device is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it not only manages its own in-line finisher but also discovers, manages, and coordinates with near-line finishers in the network. This multi-functionality allows the device to provide comprehensive post-processing options to users without significantly increasing operational complexity, as the management is handled automatically by the control unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming device searches for and manages near-line finishers in the network, then the adaptability of the print system is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming device performs self-service by automatically discovering available near-line finishers in the network and managing their integration without requiring manual configuration or external intervention. The control unit autonomously handles the complexity of network discovery, device compatibility checking, and job routing decisions, thereby improving system adaptability while keeping the user interface simple.
3Reliability
If the image forming device transfers finishing processes to near-line finishers, then the reliability of post-processing is improved, but the loss of time in job processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming device performs preliminary actions by proactively discovering and establishing connections with available near-line finishers before print jobs are submitted. The control unit pre-evaluates the capabilities and availability of near-line finishers, so that when a print job requires post-processing, the device can immediately route it to an appropriate finisher without delay, thus maintaining reliability while minimizing processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-transitory computer readable recording medium stores a print job generating program that causes a computer to perform as a setting unit, and a print job generating unit that generates a print job, based on a content of setting that is set using the setting unit by a user. In a print system environment that executes a process based on the print job, a first setting for not performing a first process, regardless of a print setting included in the print job, has been made in the print system environment for a first function of a first post-processing device included in an image forming device. The setting unit allows the user to set, alternatively to the first process, a second process performed by a second function of a second post-processing device included in the print system environment.