Peerless Systems Corporation

Stephen R Butterfield

Steven K Nelson

Donald E Phillips

Robert F Hossley

Barbara B Renshaw

An apparatus and method used to perform image rendering is capable of producing complex, high resolution images for a continuous synchronous raster image output device, such as a laser printer or a video display, using a minimum of random access memory. High level graphics instructions defining an image to be displayed or printed are provided by a processor executing an applications program. These instructions are interpreted to generate a set of graphics orders that are subsequently processed to create a bitmap image for output to a display or printer device. The graphics order processing system is independent of the central processor and thereby significantly reduces the central processor's image output overhead.

Method and apparatus for displaying a page with graphics information on

An apparatus and method used to perform image rendering in a manner which is capable of producing complex, high resolution page images where a continuous synchronous raster image output device, such as a laser printer, using a minimum of random access memory. The invented technique decomposes basic graphics functions into a compact series of orders commands suitable for real time processing and then generates the output page image in real time. The graphic content of a page is defined in much less memory then the rendered image would otherwise require, but is in a form that can be processed and deliver to the output device at the speed required by the output device. This is accomplished by the use of graphics functions which are represented as low level primitives which can be converted to bit mapped images in real time. Additionally, the number of commands which need to be processed and delivered is reduced by eliminating redundant or overlapping graphics functions to minimize the memory used by the commands.

Growing community of inventors

Manhattan Beach, CA, United States of America

Stephen R Butterfield