Printer Parameter Optimization via Dynamic Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Printing workflows face challenges due to non-optimized default values for color management and image quality, leading to suboptimal output, especially with varying printer configurations and equipment incompatibilities, resulting in manual synchronization errors and inconsistent parameter settings.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allow users to select optimal printer-specific parameters for print jobs by packaging initial color and image quality settings as a persistent data structure, dynamically adjusting settings based on printer configurations, and enabling derivation of parameter values from other parameters, thereby optimizing print settings and workflows.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If default values for color management and image quality are used, then printing workflow is simplified and faster, but image quality and color accuracy become suboptimal for specific printer configurations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting workflow speedVSAvoidimage quality

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically changes printing parameters (color management settings, image quality settings) based on the selected printer configuration. When a user selects a specific printer, the system automatically adjusts the parameters to optimal values for that device, resolving the contradiction between using simple defaults and achieving device-specific optimization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces dynamic parameter selection where the printing parameters are not fixed but adapt based on the chosen printer. The system provides a mechanism to switch between different parameter sets corresponding to different printer models, enabling both quick default printing and optimized printing when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If manual synchronization of job parameters is performed across process nodes, then parameter consistency can be maintained, but manual errors increase and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter consistencyVSAvoidworkflow efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically synchronizes parameters across process nodes without requiring manual intervention. When a printer is selected, the corresponding optimized parameters are automatically applied to all relevant process nodes (color management, image quality, etc.), eliminating manual synchronization errors and improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes a feedback mechanism where the selected printer configuration automatically triggers the appropriate parameter settings across the workflow. The system monitors the printer selection and automatically adjusts dependent parameters, ensuring consistency without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Manufacturing precision

If printer-specific optimized parameters are implemented, then image quality improves, but system complexity increases due to multiple parameter sets

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage qualityVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates a universal parameter management mechanism that handles multiple printer-specific parameter sets through a single interface. The framework is designed to work with any printer configuration, automatically selecting and applying the appropriate parameters without requiring users to manually configure each setting, thus managing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-configures optimized parameter sets for different printer models before the user needs them. When a printer is selected, the corresponding parameters are already prepared and ready to be applied, eliminating the need for users to manually configure complex settings and reducing the perceived system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Productivity

If automated workflow systems are implemented, then resource utilization is maximized, but interoperability issues arise between different equipment and software components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidequipment interoperability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary layer (the parameter selection framework) that mediates between different printer equipment and the automated workflow system. This intermediary handles the compatibility issues by automatically selecting appropriate parameters for each printer type, enabling seamless interoperability while maintaining automated workflow efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7847956B2Method and system for printer optimization

Publication Date: 2010.12.07 XEROX CORP

AI summary

Disclosed are systems and methods enabling a user to select optimal parameters for a printing job. The systems and methods disclosed are directed to facilitating the adjustment of printing parameters based upon at least the knowledge of a particular aspect of a printing environment (e.g., printer) and further including the ability to dynamically adjust parameters in relation to dynamically adjustable parameters, wherein the parameters may be determined as a function of other specified parameters.