Abstract: The present invention comprises an apparatus and method for reproducing master and variable information, including variable graphics information, on a display device, such as a computer network or a demand printer. Variable graphics information is stored in a database. A user is prompted to specify graph parameters (i.e. graph type, size, labels, etc.) or default values are used. Template page files containing fixed information and placeholders for variable information are generated. Image boxes are used as placeholders for variable graphics information and an executable graph file is placed in the image boxes. A text box containing the specified graph parameters and variable graphics information from the database is layered over the image box and “tagged” to specify that it contains variable graphics information.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for assembling fulfillment pieces with custom documents in an efficient manner. The fulfillment pieces, which may have fixed and/or variable information, are produced in line on the same press as the custom documents. This "on demand" fulfillment is accomplished through the manipulation of an original database containing document recipient information. The database manipulation includes adding records (rows) or columns to the original database to represent the custom document and the fulfillment pieces. The modified databases are used to create press command files, which are combined according to the configuration of the database to produce ordered output from a press.

Abstract: A press controller for operating an electronic press to produce a plurality of diverse publications from data stored in associated publication databases establishes a job database having data from the publication databases stored therein and controls the electronic press in accordance with the data in the job database. The present invention allows books of diverse publications to be co-mailed and thereby obtain postal discounts.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an electronic press develops first and second sets of template data representing associated first and second template pages, respectively. Each set of template data includes master data representing fixed information to be printed and area data representing an area of a page in which variable information is to be printed. A database is developed having a number of entries, each of which represents variable printed information. An electronic press is responsive to sets of template data and the database to print the first and second template pages with selected variable printed information.

Abstract: A digital page imaging (DPI) system receives customer transmitted technical document files produced on a desktop publishing package and ensures that the documents are produced properly. The system provides an easy to use interface, reduces turnaround time in processing customer work, and eliminates errors associated with manual imposition processes. The DPI system consists of a work station, modem and related telecommunication link, a photo typesetter and a software package for automatically imposing flats for printing on the typesetter.

Abstract: A system and method for assembling and binding books and for printing an address or a personalized message in accordance with coded information. The system includes a main control with a data processor and a memory for coded address and message information. One of more bindery lines each has means for gathering and assembling sections to form a book and for imaging the book with a personalized image. A line control has a data processor connected with the bindery line to control selection and assembly of signatures and imaging in accordance with the control information. Operator terminals at the main and line controls have visual display with touch screen operation input. A communication network connects the main control with each of the line controls. Address and control information from a magnetic tape is transferred to disk memory at the main control. This information is later transmitted over the communication network to the line controls.

Abstract: A system and method for assembling and binding books and for printing an address or a personalized message in accordance with coded information. The system includes a main control with a data processor and a memory for coded address and message information. One or more bindery lines each has means for gathering and assembling sections to form a book and for imaging the book with a personalized image. A line control has a data processor connected with the bindery line to control selection and assembly of signatures and imaging in accordance with the control information. Operator terminals at the main and line controls have visual display with touch screen operation input. A communication network connects the main control with each of the line controls. Address and control information from a magnetic tape is transferred to disk memory at the main control. This information is later transmitted over the communication network to the line controls.