Universal Flatplan Template for Multi-Size Booklet Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In book printing, the need to adjust post-processing devices for different page sizes increases management costs and operator workload, as multiple flatplan templates are required for various page sizes, and existing methods do not allow for seamless production of booklets with different page sizes on the same line without re-adjusting the devices.
Innovation Solution
A printing data generation device that acquires layout information and sets intra-cell positioning rules to determine page positions on a unit printing sheet based on page size, using a fixed second direction post-process reference position, allowing for the generation of printing data that does not require re-adjustment of post-processing devices, even when producing multiple booklets of different sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple flatplan templates are prepared for different page sizes, then printing accuracy for various booklet sizes is improved, but management cost and operator workload increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal flatplan template that can handle multiple booklet page sizes (A5, A6, B5, etc.) through a standardized coordinate system and automatic coordinate conversion. The template structure includes a common reference point and folding line definitions that adapt to different sizes, eliminating the need for separate templates for each page size while maintaining printing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters dynamically based on the target booklet size. When a different page size is selected, the system automatically adjusts the coordinate conversion parameters, folding line positions, and scaling factors while using the same base template. This allows the template to adapt to various sizes without requiring manual reconfiguration or template replacement.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple flatplan templates are prepared for different page sizes, then printing accuracy for various booklet sizes is improved, but operator workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides a single unified template interface that automatically adapts to different booklet sizes. Operators only need to select the desired page size from a list, and the system handles all template selection, coordinate conversion, and folding line positioning automatically. This eliminates the manual task of choosing and switching between multiple templates for different sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic coordinate conversion and template adaptation without operator intervention. When a page size is selected, the system automatically calculates the appropriate folding line positions, converts coordinates to match the target size, and adjusts the layout. This self-service capability removes the burden of manual template management from the operator.
3Adaptability or versatility
If post-processing device is re-adjusted for different page sizes, then booklet production flexibility is improved, but production time and efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal template system that produces standardized output formats suitable for all booklet sizes. The template defines folding lines and page positions in a way that can be processed by the same post-processing device configuration regardless of the target booklet size. This eliminates the need to re-adjust the post-processing device when switching between different booklet sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs all necessary coordinate conversions, folding line calculations, and layout adjustments during the printing data generation phase. By preparing the data in advance with pre-calculated positions and transformations, the system ensures that the post-processing device receives consistently formatted data that requires no re-adjustment, enabling continuous production without interruptions.
Data Source
AI summary
A print job data generation portion generates print job data, including flatplan information that specifies an actual position of each of pages on a unit printing sheet, based on submission data and a flatplan template. In the case where a page size in the submission data is smaller than a maximum page size defined by the flatplan template, the print job data generation portion determines the position of each of the pages in accordance with an intra-cell positioning rule set in the flatplan template Dt with no change in the folding position represented by the flatplan template.