Patent ID: 6327050
Filing Date: 2001-12-04
Classification: G06F,G06K

Abstract:
A raster image processing (RIP) system, comprising:a language interpreter sub-RIP that interprets an input print instruction file without processing graphics rendering steps or post-language processing operators;a rules based scheduler for assigning pages of said input print instruction file for raster image processing on either of a page or face basis or machine characteristic basis;a low resolution raster image processor (RIP) that creates a small thumbnail image of said input print instruction file or portions thereof for viewing;a skip raster image processor (RIP) having skipping techniques, that interprets selected pages in a way to skip all or most of the raster image processing for that page, wherein pages to be skipped are scheduled for a different processor, and wherein said skipping techniques include any of RIPing to low or zero resolution, skipping a rendering step for skipped pages, skipping a compression step for skipped pages; and changing selected interpreter commands for skipped pages;a plurality of raster image processors, wherein said raster image processing (RIP) system performs parallel RIPing using said plurality of raster image processors (RIPs), either on a single document or on more than one document; and wherein said plurality of raster image processors may optionally be added to said raster image processing (RIP) system dynamically; and archiving and editing means for tagged archiving of jobs or parts of jobs in a post RIPed format.