3D Modeling Interrupt Handling in Image Forming Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D modeling systems face inefficiencies when switching between 2D and 3D data processing, as they often require interrupting ongoing 3D data processes to handle 2D image formation, leading to reduced processing capabilities and prolonged delays due to the disparate processing speeds of image formation and post-processing apparatuses.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that suspends 3D data processing and prioritizes 2D data processing as an interrupt process, allowing for the generation and output of image formation data and control data according to a changed order, enabling the image forming apparatus to function efficiently for both 2D and 3D tasks without delay.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the system processes 2D image formation during 3D modeling execution, then the image forming apparatus can handle multiple tasks, but the 3D modeling process is interrupted and delayed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to handle both 2D and 3D tasksVSAvoiddelay in 3D modeling process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic process switching that allows the system to adaptively change execution order based on task priority. The information processing apparatus can dynamically suspend 3D modeling processes and switch to 2D image formation tasks, then resume the 3D modeling afterward, enabling flexible resource allocation and multi-task handling without rigid process sequencing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent generates and stores image formation data and control data in advance before actual execution. By preparing the data beforehand and storing it in memory, the system can quickly switch between tasks without significant processing delays, as the data transformation and preparation work is completed preliminarily

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If the system maintains continuous 3D modeling processing, then processing efficiency is high, but the image forming apparatus cannot efficiently handle 2D tasks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing speed of 3D modelingVSAvoidability to process 2D image data

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the image formation process into distinct phases: data generation, data storage, and actual image formation execution. This segmentation allows the system to separate the computationally intensive 3D modeling tasks from the 2D image formation tasks, enabling independent optimization of each process and efficient resource utilization across different task types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements dynamic task scheduling that can switch between 3D modeling and 2D image formation based on operational requirements. The information processing apparatus can adaptively allocate resources and adjust processing priorities, maintaining high productivity for the primary 3D modeling task while preserving the capability to efficiently handle 2D tasks when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the system switches between 2D and 3D processing tasks, then multi-functionality is achieved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-task processing capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of control and execution management

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the information processing apparatus with universal functionality to handle both 2D image formation and 3D modeling tasks through a unified data generation and management system. The same apparatus can process different task types by switching execution modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems and reducing overall system complexity despite the multi-functional capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary data storage layer that mediates between the 3D modeling process and the 2D image formation process. By using this intermediate storage mechanism, the system can decouple the two processes and manage task switching more simply, as the intermediary handles data transfer and coordination without requiring complex real-time coordination logic

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10636202B2Information processing apparatus for interrupting three-dimensional modeling, three-dimensional modeling system, and computer readable medium storing information processing program for the same

Publication Date: 2020.04.28 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes: an interrupting unit that, in case where image formation based on 2D image data is commanded during execution of 3D modeling based on slice data generated by slicing 3D data, suspends output of image formation data for formation of slice images on respective recording media by an image forming apparatus and output of control data that allow a post-processing apparatus to perform, without delay, post-processing of the 3D modeling on the recording media on which slice images have been formed by the image forming apparatus; a changing unit that changes order of execution of formation of remaining slice images of the 3D modeling, a remaining part of the post-processing of the 3D modeling, and image formation based on the 2D image data, according to a prescribed condition; and an output unit as defined herein.