Print Job Release Using Unlock Codes and Optical Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing print systems require manual selection of print jobs, leading to an operational burden for users.
Innovation Solution
A print system that utilizes a client terminal, server, and printer connected via a network, where an unlock code is transmitted to the printer to display optically-readable codes, allowing automatic print job release without manual selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual selection of print jobs is required, then print job accuracy is improved, but operational burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service printing by automatically matching print jobs with printers based on embedded identification information. The print client embeds printer identification information in the print data, and the print server automatically routes the job to the correct printer without requiring manual user selection, thus reducing operational burden while maintaining accuracy through automated identification matching
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-embedding printer identification information in the print data before transmission. This advance preparation allows the print server to automatically identify and route the print job to the correct printer without requiring real-time user intervention, thereby reducing operational burden while ensuring accurate job delivery
2Extent of automation
If optically-readable codes are displayed on printer, then automatic print job release is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optically-readable codes as an intermediary between the print client and print server. The code displayed on the printer panel serves as a mediator that the user scans with their mobile device to automatically release the print job, enabling automation without requiring complex direct communication protocols between devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical operations (physically selecting print jobs on the printer panel) with optical recognition technology. By substituting the mechanical selection process with optical code scanning and automatic digital routing, the system achieves automated print job release while keeping the physical printer interface simple
Data Source
AI summary
A print system includes a client terminal, a printer, and a server. The client terminal includes a first communication interface, a scanner, and a first processor configured to control the first communication interface to transmit a print job to the server. The server includes a second communication interface and a second processor configured to, in response the print job, obtain an unlock code associated with the printer and control the second communication interface to transmit the unlock code to the printer. The printer includes a display, a print engine, and a third processor configured to, in response to the unlock code, control the display to display an optically-readable code representing the unlock code and a server identifier. The first processor is configured to transmit a first request including the unlock code. The second processor verifies the unlock code and transmits a second request to the printer and the print job.