Abstract: A method and apparatus of printing books based on digital data, comprises accepting a plurality of orders, each order including a request for at least one copy of each of a plurality of titles. The plurality of orders form a streamlined cover set. The streamlined cover set is scanned, the detecting of each cover in the cover set causing digital printing of a book block corresponding to the detected title associated with the cover.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of printing books based on digital data, comprises accepting a plurality of orders, each order including a request for at least one copy of each of a plurality of titles. The plurality of orders form a streamlined cover set. The streamlined cover set is scanned, the detecting of each cover in the cover set causing digital printing of a book block corresponding to the detected title associated with the cover.

Abstract: The present disclosure involves reducing the space required inside a printer or other machine in which a bar code or other machine readable indicia reader is installed. In an embodiment, machine readable indicia are read from close range by mounting a sensor in close proximity to the path along which a medium is moved. The sensor reads the indicia as it is moved past the sensor and transmits the image data to a processor, which may optionally be mounted remotely, to decode the data.

Abstract: Continuous “load while run” printing of ordered sets of plural different sheets in a defined order in a printer paper path is provided even where plural different sheet feeding trays are stacked with multiple such ordered sets, by additionally loading therein near the bottom of the stack in between said ordered sets a control sheet with optically detectable control indicia which is detected in a printer paper path as that control sheet fed out from a first substantially but not fully emptied sheet feeding tray. In response to that control sheet detection, the sheet feeding from that first sheet feeding tray is automatically stopped to allow the reloading of additional ordered sets therein, and sheet feeding of further said ordered sets is automatically started from a second sheet feeding tray provide said continuous printing of said ordered sets in said defined order.