Upstream Image Data Generation for Printer Layout Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current information processing systems for image formation in printing systems face inefficiencies in generating and scheduling image information for multiple color image forming units, leading to suboptimal image formation timing and increased processing time.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that acquires print data and layout information to prioritize the generation of image information for image forming units aligned in a specific order, generating image information for units on the upstream side earlier in the process to optimize image formation timing and reduce overall processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If image information is generated sequentially for all color image forming units, then the processing is simple to implement, but the overall processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by generating image information for upstream image forming units first, before downstream units. The image information generation unit prioritizes upstream units based on layout information, ensuring that image data for units positioned earlier in the moving direction is prepared in advance. This reduces waiting time and optimizes the overall processing speed without requiring complex scheduling mechanisms.
2Loss of time
If image information for upstream units is generated first, then the image formation timing is optimized, but the generation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary generation of image information for upstream image forming units by using layout information to identify and prioritize upstream units. This ensures that image data is prepared in advance for units that will process the moving target first, reducing idle time and synchronization delays without requiring complex real-time scheduling algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The image information generation unit uses layout information as feedback to dynamically adjust the generation sequence. By continuously referencing the spatial arrangement of image forming units, the system adapts its generation process to match the physical layout, ensuring optimal timing without hardcoding complex schedules. This feedback mechanism simplifies the control logic while achieving time optimization.
3Productivity
If all image information is generated in parallel, then the processing time is reduced, but the resource requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image information generation process into distinct priority levels based on the positional relationship between image forming units. Instead of treating all units equally or requiring full parallel processing, the system divides the generation task into sequential priority groups (upstream units first, then downstream units), achieving efficient resource utilization with simplified control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes: a print data acquisition unit that acquires print data; a layout information acquisition unit that acquires layout information concerning plural image forming parts that are aligned from an upstream side toward a downstream side in a moving direction of a transfer target that moves and form images of respective different colors on the transfer target; and an image information generation unit that generates pieces of image information for the respective colors used by the plural image forming parts from the print data during a generation period and generates image information used by an image forming part located on an upstream side in the moving direction more in a former half of the generation period than in a latter half of the generation period.