Workflow Management Interface for Print Job Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed print production systems face cumbersome routing processes in managing print jobs, requiring redundant programming to map each job type to a workflow, which is inefficient and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
A method and print server with a graphical user interface (GUI) that configures sets of rules within an input device to route print jobs to multiple workflows based on associated rules, allowing for efficient matching and routing of jobs to appropriate workflows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant program and configuration is implemented to map each job type to a workflow, then routing accuracy is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal routing mechanism where a single input device handles multiple job types through configurable rules rather than dedicated programs for each job type. The routing mechanism can be dynamically configured to route different job types (financial statements, invoices, reports, etc.) to appropriate workflows, eliminating the need for redundant specialized programs while maintaining routing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses configurable parameters and rules that can be modified to adapt to different job types and routing requirements. Instead of hard-coded programs, the system allows administrators to change routing parameters, rules, and configurations through a user interface, enabling flexible adaptation to various job types without modifying the underlying routing mechanism structure.
2Reliability
If redundant program and configuration is implemented to map each job type to a workflow, then routing accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a user interface as an intermediary between the administrator and the routing configuration system. This interface simplifies the configuration process by providing a standardized way to define rules, set parameters, and manage routing without requiring direct manipulation of complex underlying systems. The interface mediates between user needs and system complexity, improving ease of operation while maintaining routing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables administrators to independently configure and modify routing rules through the user interface without requiring programmer intervention. The self-service capability allows users to adapt the routing system to new job types or changing requirements by simply configuring rules and parameters, eliminating the need for redundant programming while maintaining operational accuracy.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional routing mechanisms are used, then system stability is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to cumbersome processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, hard-coded routing mechanism into a dynamic, configurable system. The routing rules and parameters can be changed in response to different job types and business requirements without modifying the core system structure. This dynamic approach maintains system stability through a consistent routing framework while improving productivity through flexible, efficient routing decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the routing logic into separate, configurable rules that can be independently managed and optimized. Instead of a monolithic routing program, the system divides routing decisions into discrete rules that can be configured for different job types, workflows, and conditions. This segmentation improves processing efficiency by allowing targeted optimization of individual routing paths while maintaining overall system stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed. The method includes configuring one or more sets of rules within an input device to route print jobs to a plurality of workflows, receiving a print job at an input device, matching the print job with a first of a plurality of workflows based on a set of rules associated with the first workflow and routing the print job to the first workflow.