Abstract: The disclosed book production system and method allow a book block and flexible book cover for that book block to be printed in the same print job immediately prior to binding. Specifically, a user-selection indicates that a book print job contains both the book block and the cover. Raster image processing is performed to produce raster images based on all page descriptions in the print job. The raster images are sorted by size to identify first raster images for the book block pages and to identify at least one second raster image, which is more than twice as large as any of the first raster images, for the cover. The pages for the book block and the cover can be printed on first print media sheets and on a second larger print media sheet, respectively. Then, the cover can be bound to the book block by an in-line bookbinder.

Abstract: The disclosed book production system and method allow a book block and flexible book cover for that book block to be printed in the same print job immediately prior to binding. Specifically, a user-selection indicates that a book print job contains both the book block and the cover. Raster image processing is performed to produce raster images based on all page descriptions in the print job. The raster images are sorted by size to identify first raster images for the book block pages and to identify at least one second raster image, which is more than twice as large as any of the first raster images, for the cover. The pages for the book block and the cover can be printed on first print media sheets and on a second larger print media sheet, respectively. Then, the cover can be bound to the book block by an in-line bookbinder.

Abstract: A method and graphical user interface for selecting pad printing functions for an image output device. The user interface is provided to a user and displays a pad printing dialog box that enables selection of pad printing output. Selectable pad printing options are displayed, which include the number of sheets per pad and the total number of pads to be output. When the user selection of pad printing and pad printing options are received, the total quantity of sheets to be output based on selected pad printing options and organizing the sheets for pad printing output from the image output device are automatically determined. Availability of pad printing is determined based on finishing options selected.

Abstract: A method for utilizing a graphical user interface for concurrent programming of multiple feature operations to a single production job in a controller for a production system includes presenting options on the user interface for the selection of job properties or queue properties, with queue properties defined as default values for the virtual device to which the job will be submitted and job properties defined as job feature selection options. The job feature selection options may be hidden or displayed to enable the selection of valid job feature combinations only. Toggle controls are utilized for job feature options whose operation is limited by previously selected job feature options. The application of any valid combination of selected job feature options on the completed production job is illustrated on a dynamic graphic.