Abstract: Multi-colorant and monochromatic digital image print lines are connected to operate sequentially from a single sheet feeder in a first mode and switchable to operate independently from separate feeders in a second mode. The print lines may include sets of monochromatic and multi-colorant marking engines.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems for improving print quality. In one embodiment, a method of optimizing printer output quality is provided which includes identifying media in at least one media tray, querying a media database for a record corresponding to the identified media, extracting data from a record of identified media, adjusting printer operation based upon the extracted data, and printing on the identified media, wherein the printer operation is adjusted on a page-by-page basis within a single print job. Typical parameters which are adjusted during the print job are the transfer voltages and the volume of toner deposition. In another embodiment, media is assigned to groups based upon its color and print parameters are adjusted as different colors of media are used.

Abstract: Main job production progress is monitored so that sample copies of parts of the main job that are designated critical or representative of the job as a whole can be produced on a regular interrupting basis. The samples are used to monitor production quality. Digital printing system modules are arranged and configured to provide a sample job destination separate from the main job destination.

Abstract: The concept of a document assembly tree is extended to include in nodes, such as a node describing a sheet 330 or a node describing a compilation 342, a sample interval specification. The sample interval specification is interpreted as a request to produce sample copies of the part of a job described by the node every time the sample interval specified in the node has transpired. Digital printing system modules are arranged and configured to provide a sample job destination 39 separate from the main job destination.

Abstract: An image reproduction system enables an operator to switch between different sets of finishing instructions by switching a shadow job ticket between an active state and an inactive state. Ticket management software assembles a composite job ticket having finishing instructions and provides those instructions to a printer. If the shadow job ticket is in its active state, finishing instructions from a base job ticket are superceded by corresponding instructions from the shadow job ticket. If the shadow job ticket is in its inactive state, the ticket management software assembles a composite job ticket without using the shadow job ticket.

Abstract: A digital printing system (10) includes a method to request and receive customized job status information. A document assembly tree (300) is extended to include the ability to enter status report frequency specifications at a compilation node (310), or at any other node, such as an intermediate sheet node (330) or sub-compilation node (342). The method consumes less control bus (31) bandwidth than other systems by providing only the required information at a configurable interval.

Abstract: A mechanical seal is disposed in surrounding relationship to a pump shaft within an enlarged-bore seal chamber defined by the pump housing to create a sealed relationship therebetween. The mechanical seal includes a gland ring stationarily fixed to the pump housing for closing off an outer end of the enlarged-bore seal chamber. An annular erosion protector is disposed within the enlarged-bore chamber in close and generally overlapping relationship to the inner axial face of the gland ring. This annular protector has radially projecting protrusions which project axially inwardly along the outer portion of the enlarged-bore chamber, and also preferably has an annular part which projects radially inwardly so as to effectively cover substantially the entire inner face of the gland ring. The erosion protector is effective in significantly eliminating direct erosion-contact of pump fluid against both the gland ring and the surrounding wall of the seal chamber.