CLOUD-BASED PAY-PER-USE PRINT VENDING MACHINE WITH DYNAMIC BILLING AND AI-DRIVEN OPTIMIZATION

Abstract

Cloud-Based Pay-Per-Use Print Vending Machine with Dynamic Billing and AI-Driven Optimization. This invention describes a cloud-based document management and pay-per-use Print Vending Machine designed for remote and efficient document handling. The system allows users to upload, store, and manage documents securely via a cloud platform and print them using a cloud-connected device. It operates on a dynamic billing model, calculating costs based on document size and number of pages, while offering personalized discounts according to user activity. The system features a multi-tier cloud architecture that ensures scalable storage and secure communication, coupled with encryption protocols to protect data in transit and at rest. An AI-driven engine provides personalized printing recommendations, optimizes resource usage, and predicts maintenance needs for uninterrupted operation. This invention is ideal for users seeking flexible, on-demand printing with minimal investment in physical hardware while ensuring security, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Specification

Description:[0001] This invention relates to the field of computer science and electronics engineering more particularly an integrated cloud-based Print Vending Machine specifically designed to facilitate remote document handling and printing with pay per use system. The System operates on a dynamic billing model that calculates costs based on actual usage and offers personalised discounts according to user behavior. It incorporates a multi-tier cloud architecture for secure document storage and processing, cloud-connected printing devices for efficient document retrieval and printing, and robust encryption protocols to ensure data confidentiality. The invention further includes AI-driven analytics to optimise printing settings, predict maintenance needs, and enhance overall system efficiency. This system addresses users' needs by requiring flexible, on-demand printing solutions while minimising costs and ensuring security.

PRIOR ART AND PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0002] The demand for printing services has consistently remained high across various sectors such as education, businesses, and personal use. However, the traditional approach to printing-relying on personal printers or local print shops-comes with several limitations that make it inefficient and cumbersome. For instance, maintaining personal printers can be costly due to ink, paper, and repair expenses. Furthermore, small businesses or individuals may not need to print frequently, making the investment in a personal printer inefficient. Another major issue with traditional print shops is that they are geographically constrained, requiring users to visit the store, wait in long queues, and deal with inconsistent pricing models. As users increasingly move toward flexible, remote working or studying environments, these limitations in traditional printing services become more pronounced. The need for an on-demand, accessible, and cost-effective printing service is crucial for enhancing efficiency.

[0003] Several solutions have been proposed to address the inefficiencies of traditional printing services, but each comes with its own set of challenges. Subscription-based printing services, for example, offer users a fixed number of prints for a monthly fee, eliminating the need to own a personal printer. However, this model is inefficient for users with sporadic printing needs, as they may end up paying more in subscription fees than they would for occasional use. Moreover, while mobile print solutions allow users to send documents to print shops through apps, they are still constrained by geography, requiring users to visit a physical location to pick up their prints. This limitation hinders the convenience that remote users seek.

[0004] Cloud-enabled printers, which allow for remote printing from any internet-connected device, address some issues but introduce new ones. These solutions still necessitate the purchase of a compatible printer, leading to high upfront costs and ongoing expenses for consumables like ink and paper. In addition, users often encounter technical challenges, such as device compatibility and network connectivity problems, which can complicate the printing process. Document-sharing services have also been developed, allowing users to send their files to print shops for pickup or delivery. While this removes the need to own a printer, it also introduces other complications, such as delivery delays and increased costs, especially for high-volume users. Additionally, these services depend on third-party logistics, which can lead to issues like lost documents or communication errors, making them unsuitable for urgent printing needs.

[0005] Several solutions have been introduced to address the challenges associated with traditional printing services, leveraging both technological advancements and new business models. One approach involves subscription-based printing services, where users pay a fixed monthly fee for a set number of prints. This model eliminates the need for users to own a printer, theoretically reducing costs and hassle. However, it can be inefficient for individuals who do not print frequently, leading to wasted subscription fees. Those with occasional printing needs may find themselves paying more than what they would spend on an ad-hoc basis, making the model economically impractical for infrequent users.

[0006] Mobile print solutions offer another alternative, allowing users to send documents to print shops via dedicated apps. While this method enables remote printing and reduces reliance on personal printers, it still faces geographical constraints. Users must physically travel to the print shop to collect their documents, which undermines the convenience of the solution, particularly for those located in remote or underserved areas. The necessity of visiting a physical location continues to be a barrier for those seeking true flexibility in their printing options.

[0007] Cloud-enabled wireless printer networks have also been proposed as a solution to these problems, offering the ability to print remotely from any device connected to the internet. However, these systems require users to invest in a compatible printer, which reintroduces the burden of high upfront costs, ongoing maintenance, and consumables like ink and paper. Additionally, such solutions often face technical hurdles, including device compatibility issues, connectivity challenges, and the complexity of managing printer settings across different platforms. These technical barriers can make it difficult for less tech-savvy users to fully benefit from the System.

[0008] Another approach is the use of document-sharing services that allow users to send files directly to print shops for either pickup or delivery. This solution mitigates the need for users to own a printer, but it introduces delays and additional costs associated with delivery. For users requiring urgent or high-volume prints, this can become an expensive and unreliable option. Moreover, since these services depend on third-party logistics, issues such as delivery delays, lost documents, or communication breakdowns can occur, adding further inconvenience and uncertainty. Despite these attempts to modernise printing services, each solution falls short in addressing key issues such as cost efficiency, geographical accessibility, and ease of use. The existing approaches, while innovative, still struggle to fully meet the demands of users who require flexible, on-demand, and reliable printing solutions.

[0009] To resolve the above mentioned problem This invention introduces a cloud-based document management and print vending machine designed to simplify the printing process while ensuring user flexibility. The System allows users to upload, manage, and print documents using the print vending machine that is integrated to the cloud platform. Operating on a pay-per-use billing model, the System dynamically calculates costs based on the size and number of pages printed. The framework also features secure communication protocols, ensuring the confidentiality of all uploaded documents. It tracks user activity to provide personalized discounts and supports various devices for seamless access. The System is ideal for individuals or organisations seeking an on-demand printing solution without the need for large-scale hardware investments.

THE OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION:

[0010] It has already been proposed where online printing services, which allow users to upload documents digitally and have them printed and delivered directly to their doorsteps. Companies such as Vistaprint, FedEx Office, and other online platforms offer customized printing options for businesses and individuals alike, providing services ranging from simple document printing to advanced marketing materials like brochures, posters, and banners. These online services promise to eliminate the need for personal printers or physical visits to local print shops. Users can submit their print jobs from the comfort of their homes or offices, set detailed preferences (such as paper quality, color options, binding, etc.), and receive their prints via mail. This model streamlines the printing process and allows for better price comparison across different vendors, often leading to cost savings for the end-user. However, while online printing services solve some issues related to convenience and cost, they introduce new challenges. The primary problem with such services is the time delay. Since these services rely on shipping, users must wait for the printed materials to arrive, which can take days, depending on the location and shipping options. This makes online printing services unsuitable for urgent, same-day printing needs. Additionally, shipping costs can add significantly to the overall expense, particularly for heavier print jobs or when using expedited delivery options.

[0011] The principal objective of the invention is a cloud-integrated document management and pay-per-use Print Vending Machine that enables seamless interaction between users and physical printing devices through a multi-tiered cloud architecture. The system is designed to provide secure document management, scalable cloud storage, and remote printing capabilities, with a dynamic billing model that calculates costs based on actual usage metrics, including document size and print volume. This objective includes the integration of personalized discount mechanisms, utilizing user activity data to offer tiered discounts, while ensuring end-to-end security with encryption protocols and robust user authentication methods. The system further incorporates AI-driven user insights to enhance the overall printing experience and optimize resource allocation.

[0012] Another objective of the invention is a multi-tier cloud architecture that supports the secure upload, storage, retrieval, and management of user documents. This architecture shall be scalable to accommodate varying user demands, employing distributed storage methods to ensure redundancy and data integrity. It shall interface with connected physical printing devices and maintain secure communication channels, leveraging encryption protocols to safeguard sensitive document data during transmission and storage.

[0013] The further objective of the invention is to integrate a pay-per-use billing system that dynamically adjusts charges based on document size, number of pages printed, and overall resource utilization. The billing engine shall compute real-time costs and apply personalized discounts tailored to individual user profiles, leveraging historical usage data to reward frequent and high-volume users. The system shall further include a transparent invoicing mechanism that allows users to review costs and receive real-time payment updates.

[0014] The further objective of the invention is to implement a secure encryption and authentication framework that ensures the confidentiality and integrity of all user data, both in transit and at rest. The system shall employ advanced encryption standards, such as AES-256, along with public-key infrastructure (PKI) for document decryption and transmission security. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access control (RBAC) will further ensure that only authorized users can access, upload, or print documents, thus preserving the privacy of sensitive materials.

[0015] The further objective of the invention is an AI-driven analytics engine that monitors user behavior, tracks print history, and analyzes document usage patterns to provide optimized printing recommendations. The AI system shall suggest cost-saving options such as paper size adjustments, duplex printing, and print quality settings, all aimed at reducing printing costs. Additionally, predictive maintenance features for the printing device shall be included, allowing the system to anticipate and resolve potential issues, such as low ink or paper jams, before they disrupt operations.

[0016] The further objective of the invention is to establish an efficient user interface on both the cloud platform and connected printing devices, enabling users to effortlessly upload, manage, and print documents from remote locations. This interface shall support multiple access points, including mobile applications, web-based portals, and direct interaction with the printing hardware. The user experience shall be optimized for ease of use, ensuring that document selection, print customization, and billing review are intuitive and accessible, with real-time updates on the status of print jobs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The Cloud printing allows users to connect to a network of printers available in public spaces, such as libraries, co-working spaces, or dedicated printing stations located in high-traffic areas like shopping malls or transportation hubs. Users can send their print jobs to any available printer within the network via a cloud-based service, then pick up the printed documents at their convenience. While cloud printing presents a more flexible solution, it still faces challenges. One major issue is printer availability. Users may find that the nearest printer in the network is still located far from them, making access inconvenient. Moreover, many cloud printing systems are still in their infancy and may lack comprehensive coverage, meaning users in certain regions may not have adequate access to printers. Furthermore, security concerns arise when sensitive documents are transmitted over the internet to a shared printer network, leaving room for potential data breaches or unauthorized access.

[0018] So here in this invention is a cloud-based document management and Print Vending Machine is designed to simplify remote and on-demand printing. It enables users to upload, store, and manage documents securely in the cloud while connecting to physical print vending machine in front of them. The system operates on a pay-per-use model, where billing dynamically adjusts based on the number of documents printed and their respective sizes. This setup eliminates the need for pre-paid subscriptions and offers personalized discounts based on user behavior and print volume. The system is highly secure, employing encryption protocols for all document transfers and multi-factor authentication to ensure the integrity of user data. The connected printing device retrieves documents from the cloud and processes them for high-speed printing, supporting a wide range of file formats. The invention is particularly advantageous for users requiring minimal hardware investment while benefiting from a flexible, cost-effective printing solution.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] While the present invention is described herein by example, using various embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognise recognize invention is neither intended to be limited that to the embodiment of drawing or drawings described nor designed to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some features that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated with specific figures for ease of illustration. Such omissions do not limit the embodiment outlined in any way. The drawings and detailed description are not intended to restrict the invention to the form disclosed. Still, on the contrary, the invention covers all modification/s, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. The headings are used for organizational purposes only and are not meant to limit the description's size or the claims. As used throughout this specification, the worn "may" be used in a permissive sense (That is, meaning having the potential) rather than the mandatory sense (That is, meaning, must).

[0020] Further, the words "an" or "a" mean "at least one" and the word "plurality" means one or more unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents and any additional subject matter not recited, and is not supposed to exclude any other additives, components, integers or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents acts, materials, devices, articles and the like are included in the specification solely to provide a context for the present invention.

[0021] In this disclosure, whenever an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase "comprising", it is also understood that it contemplates the same component or group of elements with transitional phrases "consisting essentially of, "consisting", "selected from the group comprising", "including", or "is" preceding the recitation of the element or group of elements and vice versa. Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited in its application to the details outlined in the following description or exemplified by the examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Besides, the descriptions, materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention.

[0023] The present invention is a Cloud-Based Pay-Per-Use Document Management and Print Vending Machine with Dynamic Billing and scalable platform engineered to streamline document management and printing services. The system is designed to address the growing demand for flexible, on-demand printing, allowing users to upload, manage, and print documents remotely through a cloud-based environment. Its purpose is to offer a seamless, secure, and user-friendly solution for individuals and organizations that require efficient document handling without the need for extensive local hardware infrastructure or pre-paid service commitments.

[0024] The system operates on a dynamic billing model, providing users with a cost-effective solution where charges are calculated based on actual document usage. This billing structure not only accommodates infrequent users by eliminating pre-paid subscription requirements but also offers high-volume users personalized discounts, thereby optimizing the cost per print. The billing model is designed to adjust in real-time, reflecting the size and number of pages of printed documents, while simultaneously applying discounts derived from user activity and behavior patterns. This feature enhances user satisfaction by ensuring that costs remain proportionate to the services rendered.

[0025] A key feature of the system is its robust security framework, which guarantees the confidentiality and integrity of all user data. The system leverages encryption protocols to secure document uploads, storage, and transfers, ensuring that sensitive documents remain protected throughout the process. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and other advanced security measures are integrated to restrict access and provide additional layers of protection. This high level of security is particularly beneficial in industries where document privacy is of utmost concern, such as legal, financial, and healthcare sectors.

[0026] The system's cloud architecture is built for scalability, allowing users to manage documents with ease, regardless of their volume or complexity. Through a centralized cloud platform, users can access their documents from any location and at any time, offering unparalleled flexibility. The architecture supports seamless integration with remote printing devices, providing an uninterrupted user experience. This flexibility is crucial for businesses and individuals who need immediate access to printing services without being physically present at a specific location.

[0027] Additionally, the system incorporates AI-driven user insights that personalize the printing experience. By analysing user behavior and historical data, the system offers tailored recommendations aimed at enhancing both efficiency and cost savings. These recommendations include optimizing print settings, such as selecting the appropriate paper size or print quality, and advising on the most economical printing options. Furthermore, the AI-powered analytics also assist in system maintenance, predicting potential issues with the printing hardware, thus minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operation.

[0028] The primary purpose of this system is to bridge the gap between remote document management and on-demand printing, offering a reliable, secure, and flexible service for both individual and enterprise users. It enables businesses to operate without significant upfront investments in hardware and provides a comprehensive solution for users seeking a convenient, cost-effective way to handle their document printing needs. This cloud-based system is a designed to meet the evolving needs of modern document management while providing a superior user experience.

Externally, the machine's physical design echoes the high-tech nature of its internal components. Its outer shell is made from durable, high-quality materials that boast a smooth matte finish, chosen specifically to resist fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a pristine appearance over time. Compact and space-efficient, the machine's rounded edges lend it a professional yet approachable look, making it ideal for both home and office use.
The front of the machine features a prominently placed touchscreen, positioned at an ergonomic angle for comfortable use. This high-resolution display offers sharp text, and intuitive navigation. The touchscreen interface allows users to select print jobs, preview documents, and monitor print progress with ease. By simplifying the interaction, this interface reduces the likelihood of errors and ensures a smooth and satisfying user experience. Additionally, the machine features a well-concealed document tray that extends automatically when a print job is initiated. This tray retracts when not in use, maintaining the device's clean lines and contributing to its overall minimalist aesthetic. The paper feed system is hidden within the machine, keeping the exterior free from visible paper stacks or clutter. Subtle LED indicators provide critical status updates-such as ink levels or connectivity issues-without disrupting the sleek visual flow of the machine. These design elements are carefully integrated to ensure that they do not overwhelm the user with unnecessary complexity.

[0029] The Cloud-Based Pay-Per-Use Document Management and Print Vending Machine with Dynamic Billing is comprised of a series of highly specialized and interdependent components, each meticulously designed to fulfil a distinct role within the system while maintaining seamless integration with other elements. The holistic interaction between these components ensures that the system operates efficiently, securely, and with minimal user intervention, delivering a dynamic and personalized printing experience.

[0030] At the core of the system lies the multi-tier cloud architecture, which serves as the foundational framework for document management, storage, and communication. This architecture is divided into several layers, each with a distinct function. The data management layer is responsible for storing user-uploaded documents in a secure, distributed manner across multiple cloud servers. These servers ensure redundancy and high availability, making it possible for users to access their documents from any location with an internet connection. Interaction with this layer is enabled through the document processing engine, which translates various document formats into printer-compatible files, ensuring seamless print execution regardless of the original file type. This component works in conjunction with the retrieval module, which communicates directly with the printing device to ensure documents are accurately delivered and ready for processing.

[0031] The cloud-based document management system interacts directly with the dynamic billing engine, which is integrated into the architecture to calculate the real-time costs associated with each print job. This engine takes into account multiple variables, including the size of the document, the number of pages printed, and the user's historical printing behavior. The billing engine dynamically adjusts these costs, applying personalized discounts based on predefined rules, such as frequency of use or print volume. The interaction between the billing engine and the user profile analytics engine allows the system to offer tailored billing experiences, where frequent users are rewarded with loyalty discounts, and occasional users are provided with cost-effective options. The synchronization between these engines ensures that the system remains responsive to changing user needs while optimizing operational costs.

[0032] Security is paramount in the system's architecture, and the encryption protocols ensure that all user data remains confidential. The encryption module operates at both the cloud and device levels, securing data at rest and in transit. When a user uploads a document, it is encrypted using advanced encryption algorithms, such as AES-256, ensuring that sensitive information is protected. Upon retrieval by the printing device, the document is decrypted locally, allowing the system to process the document without exposing its contents to unauthorized parties. The integration of public-key infrastructure (PKI) within this encryption system adds an additional layer of security by controlling access to the data, ensuring that only authenticated users and devices can decrypt and print the document.

[0033] The physical printing device, which is tightly integrated with the cloud-based system, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between digital document management and physical output. The device is equipped with a network communication interface that securely connects to the cloud, allowing it to retrieve user-selected documents for printing. This interface is responsible for maintaining constant communication with the cloud, ensuring that documents are fetched and processed in real time. The device also includes a local document cache, which temporarily stores frequently printed documents, reducing retrieval time for high-demand users. This caching feature ensures that the system remains responsive, particularly in scenarios where network latency may otherwise slow down operations.

[0034] The print engine within the device is responsible for the physical execution of the print jobs. This engine is designed to handle a variety of paper sizes and formats, automatically adjusting print settings based on the document's specifications. The interaction between the print engine and the document retrieval module is seamless, ensuring that documents are printed accurately and without delay. Furthermore, the system is designed to monitor ink usage, paper levels, and potential mechanical issues, enabling it to notify the user of maintenance needs before they disrupt the printing process. The predictive maintenance features, powered by AI-driven insights, allow the system to anticipate and resolve potential problems, such as low ink levels or paper jams, ensuring continuous operation and minimizing downtime.

[0035] The AI-driven analytics engine embedded in the system provides advanced insights into user behaviour, document usage patterns, and system performance. This engine operates across both the cloud and device layers, analysing print history and document handling to provide personalized recommendations. For example, it can suggest cost-saving measures such as duplex printing, optimal paper sizes, and resolution adjustments. The AI engine further enhances system efficiency by predicting maintenance needs based on historical data, thereby reducing operational disruptions. This interaction between the AI engine and the print engine ensures that users receive a highly optimized, cost-effective printing experience without sacrificing performance or quality.

[0036] The integration of these components-each meticulously designed for a specific purpose-ensures the overall system functions as a cohesive unit. The multi-tier cloud architecture facilitates document management and secure storage, while the dynamic billing engine and user profile analytics ensure personalized and cost-effective service. The encryption protocols safeguard user data at every stage, and the physical printing device seamlessly bridges the gap between digital documents and physical output. The AI-driven insights further enhance the system's adaptability, making it a cutting-edge solution for modern document management and printing needs.

[0037] The operation of the Cloud-Based Pay-Per-Use Document Management and Print Vending Machine with Dynamic Billing begins with the user interfacing with the cloud-based platform. Users can access the system through various devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, using a web-based interface or a dedicated mobile application. Once logged in, the user uploads the desired document to the cloud-based storage system. During this process, the system encrypts the document using advanced encryption protocols to ensure secure data transmission and storage. This encryption guarantees the confidentiality of sensitive information from the moment the document is uploaded until it is retrieved for printing.

[0038] After the document is uploaded, the user can manage the file within the cloud environment, including organizing, editing, or selecting it for printing. When the user initiates a print request, the document is processed by the document management system, which converts the file into a printer-compatible format. This processing ensures that the document can be printed accurately across a range of devices and printing configurations. The cloud system then communicates with the networked printing device, transmitting the document securely via end-to-end encrypted communication channels. During this stage, the document is retrieved by the printing device's document retrieval module, which decrypts the file locally to prepare it for printing.

[0039] Simultaneously, the dynamic billing engine calculates the cost of the print job. The billing process is intricately linked to the size of the document, the number of pages printed, and any other user-specific preferences, such as paper size and print quality. The system applies the pay-per-use model, charging the user based on real-time usage metrics. Personalized discounts are calculated and applied dynamically, based on the user's profile and historical activity. The AI-driven analytics engine assesses user behaviour, tracking print frequency and volume, to offer these tailored discounts and optimize costs.

[0040] Once the document is decrypted, the print engine within the physical printing device initiates the printing process. The print engine is designed to adjust print settings automatically according to the document's specifications, ensuring that the output aligns with user preferences. Throughout the print operation, the system monitors key variables, such as ink levels and paper availability, to ensure smooth execution without interruptions. Should any issues arise, such as low ink or a paper jam, the predictive maintenance feature of the AI engine anticipates and resolves these problems, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.

[0041] The printed document is then output by the device, with the system automatically updating the user's account in real-time to reflect the printing activity. Invoices are generated based on the completed print job, with the billing system applying any relevant discounts and calculating the final cost. The user can pay for the services through integrated payment gateways, completing the transaction seamlessly.

[0042] The system's multi-tier cloud architecture plays a critical role in synchronizing the entire workflow. It facilitates secure data management, document retrieval, and printing operations, all while maintaining a highly scalable infrastructure that supports users with varying levels of demand. Each component of the system works in tandem, ensuring that the user receives a seamless, efficient, and cost-effective experience. The encryption protocols, multi-factor authentication, and secure communication systems ensure that the integrity and confidentiality of all document-related activities are preserved at every stage.

[0043] The system operates as a cohesive and sophisticated platform, integrating cloud-based document management with physical printing technology to deliver a dynamic, secure, and personalized user experience. Its pay-per-use billing, advanced encryption, and AI-driven insights further enhance its functionality, ensuring that users can print documents remotely with full confidence in the system's security and efficiency.

[0044] Case Study Example: A medium-sized marketing firm is preparing for a major client presentation, which requires the printing of multiple high-quality marketing materials, reports, and presentation documents. Due to the last-minute nature of the presentation, the firm experiences a sudden surge in its document printing needs. The cloud-based pay-per-use printing framework is employed to ensure efficient document management, cost-effective billing, and timely delivery of printed materials, all while accommodating the tight deadlines.

[0045] As the team prepares for the client presentation, various team members from different departments upload their reports and presentation materials to the cloud-based document management system. Each team member accesses the system from their individual devices, including laptops and tablets, uploading files directly to the secure cloud storage. The multi-tier cloud architecture allows for seamless document uploads and immediate availability of these files for printing, regardless of the users' locations. This decentralized access minimizes delays and ensures that all necessary documents are uploaded in real time.

[0046] Once the documents are uploaded, the firm's project manager selects the files for printing through the cloud interface. Given the urgency, the project manager utilizes the system's print queue management to prioritize the most time-sensitive materials. The system processes the selected documents, converting them into printer-compatible formats and organizing them for efficient print execution.

[0047] The dynamic billing engine comes into play as the system calculates the printing costs in real time. Since this printing task involves high volumes and large file sizes, the billing system dynamically adjusts to reflect the increased resource usage. However, as the firm has a history of regular usage, the system's personalized discount engine offers significant reductions in cost, leveraging the company's frequent use of the service. The firm is also able to benefit from loyalty-based discounts, as the dynamic billing system recognizes the high-volume printing needs and applies tiered cost reductions accordingly. This ensures that the firm receives optimal pricing without needing to subscribe to a pre-paid printing service.

[0048] As the printing begins, the cloud-connected printing device retrieves the documents directly from the cloud storage. The device's document retrieval module ensures that all files are securely transmitted and decrypted for immediate printing. The system's print engine then processes the files, adjusting print settings automatically based on the document specifications-such as paper size, resolution, and color requirements-ensuring that the presentation materials meet the high-quality standards expected by the client.

[0049] Given the tight deadline, the AI-powered predictive maintenance feature of the system plays a crucial role in preventing disruptions. As the print volume spikes, the system monitors ink levels, paper availability, and potential mechanical issues, such as paper jams or print head malfunctions. The predictive maintenance alerts the team to low ink levels and ensures that additional paper is loaded, preventing delays that could impact the tight schedule. The AI-driven insights also optimize the printing workflow by suggesting duplex printing where applicable, reducing paper consumption without compromising the quality or layout of the materials.

[0050] Throughout the process, the project manager monitors the status of the print jobs through the cloud interface, which provides real-time updates on job completion and any potential issues. The system's transparency allows for quick adjustments if necessary, such as reordering print jobs or reprioritizing documents to ensure that the most critical materials are printed first.

[0051] Once all documents are printed, the system automatically updates the firm's billing account, generating a detailed invoice that reflects the real-time usage and applied discounts. The firm completes the payment through an integrated payment gateway, ensuring that the transaction is processed smoothly and efficiently.

[0052] As a result, the marketing firm is able to meet its tight deadlines without compromising the quality or cost-effectiveness of the printing process. The cloud-based pay-per-use printing framework proves invaluable in managing the sudden increase in document printing needs, offering dynamic billing flexibility, secure document handling, and real-time operational insights-all critical to the successful preparation for the client presentation.

[0053] While there has been illustrated and described embodiments of the present invention, those of ordinary skill in the art, to be understood that various changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, modifications, substitutions and modifications, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims and their equivalents.

FIGURE DESCRIPTION

[0054] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate an exemplary embodiment and explain the disclosed embodiment together with the description. The left and rightmost digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears in the figures. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of the System and methods of an embodiment of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example only, and concerning the accompanying figures, in which:

[0055] Figure - 1 illustrates the block diagram of the units inside the print vending machine. , Claims:1. An integrated cloud-based pay-per-use Print Vending Machine comprising:
cloud-based document management unit configured to securely receive, store, and manage user-uploaded documents, wherein it allows users to remotely access and manipulate documents through an application interface;
cloud-connected printing device operatively linked to the document management framework, the device configured to retrieve documents for printing, wherein the printing device comprises a print engine capable of automatically adjusting print settings according to document specifications;
dynamic billing engine integrated with the cloud-based framework, configured to calculate real-time costs based on document size, number of pages printed, and user-specific factors, wherein the billing engine applies personalized discounts based on user activity history and predefined discount models;
a multi-tier cloud architecture supporting the document management framework, wherein the architecture ensures scalable storage, secure communication, and efficient document processing across distributed cloud servers;
an encryption mechanism applied to all document-related data, both at rest and in transit, wherein the protocol ensures secure transmission and retrieval of documents between the cloud-based system and the printing device;
AI-powered user insights engine configured to monitor user behaviour, analyse print history, and provide personalized recommendations to optimize print settings and resource usage, and to predict potential hardware issues to facilitate proactive maintenance.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cloud-based document management framework provides multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access control (RBAC) to regulate user access and ensure document security.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cloud-connected printing device further comprises a local document cache, configured to store frequently printed documents temporarily, reducing retrieval time and optimizing printing efficiency for high-demand users.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dynamic billing engine calculates printing costs using a combination of per-page and per-byte algorithms, dynamically adjusting pricing based on real-time resource availability and operational costs.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the AI-powered user insights engine provides real-time feedback on system usage patterns, suggesting cost-saving measures such as duplex printing, optimal paper size selection, and document quality adjustments to minimize printing costs without compromising user requirements.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the encryption protocol comprises advanced encryption standards (AES-256) and public-key infrastructure (PKI), ensuring that only authenticated users and devices can decrypt and print documents, preserving the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the multi-tier cloud architecture is designed to ensure data redundancy and high availability, thereby facilitating seamless document access and retrieval from any location with an internet connection.
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the print engine of the cloud-connected printing device is configured to monitor ink levels, paper supply, and print head functionality, automatically alerting users to potential issues and enabling predictive maintenance to prevent downtime during high-volume printing operations.
9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dynamic billing engine applies tiered loyalty-based discounts to frequent users and adjusts pricing models based on user-specific historical data and predefined activity thresholds.
10. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cloud-connected printing device is configured to support multiple types of print jobs, including color and monochrome printing, as well as variable paper sizes and media types, ensuring compatibility with diverse document types.

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