Workflow Configuration Interface for Commercial Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workflow generation tools in commercial printing are complex due to the large number of processes and parameters involved, making it difficult for users to easily set up workflows, especially when considering prepress and postpress parameter settings.
Innovation Solution
A user interface that allows users to easily set processes and parameters by displaying process management tables and workflow process control tables, enabling users to specify parts of a product and input setting values on dedicated screens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a workflow is generated by freely connecting icons indicating processes using a graphical user interface, then the workflow can be customized to various product forms, but the number of processes and parameters to be set becomes large, making it complicated and difficult for users to easily make settings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the workflow setting process into distinct parts: process selection and parameter setting. By separating these functions and providing dedicated input fields for parameters when processes are selected, the system reduces the complexity of the graphical interface while maintaining full customization capability. Users can add processes through icons and then set parameters in organized groups rather than dealing with all parameters simultaneously across a complex interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining parameter groups and parameter items that are automatically displayed when a process is selected. Instead of requiring users to manually configure all parameters from scratch, the system prepares the relevant parameter structure in advance based on the selected process type, significantly reducing the effort required for workflow setup.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of processes and parameter settings is increased to handle various product forms in commercial printing, then the system can accommodate diverse printing needs, but the complexity of generating a workflow increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments parameters into hierarchical groups (parameter groups and parameter items) that are automatically organized based on the selected process. This segmentation allows the system to handle numerous parameters for diverse product forms without presenting all parameters simultaneously to the user, thereby reducing workflow generation complexity while maintaining comprehensive product support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal parameter management structure that can accommodate various product forms (oddments, books, etc.) through a standardized interface. The same process selection and parameter setting mechanism works across different product types, eliminating the need for separate complex configuration systems for each product form.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed parameter settings are provided for each process in commercial printing, then accurate control of prepress and postpress operations is achieved, but the time required for workflow setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-organizing parameters into meaningful groups and automatically displaying only the relevant parameter items when a process is selected. This preparation of parameter structures in advance allows users to quickly access and set detailed parameters without searching through unrelated options, significantly reducing workflow setup time while maintaining precise control over prepress and postpress operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by displaying different parameter groups and items based on the specific process selected. Each process type (e.g., imposition, barcode generation, folding) shows only its relevant parameters with appropriate detail levels, allowing users to set precise parameters for each operation without being overwhelmed by parameters unrelated to the current process context.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
A setting screen (207) for adding an operation process and setting a parameter related to the operation process is displayed. Via the setting screen (207), accepting of an instruction to add an operation process and setting of a parameter of the operation process are performed. A workflow is generated so as to include the operation process instructed to be added and information on the parameter of the set process.