Additive Policy Control for Multifunction Peripheral Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multifunction peripheral (MFP) configuration systems do not allow for the addition or removal of individual policies without replacing existing policies, making it difficult to manage and monitor devices without disrupting the current configuration, especially when configuring multiple devices simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The system enables the selection and application of either single or additive device configuration policies, allowing users to add or remove policies from MFPs without replacing existing configurations, facilitating flexible and efficient management of MFPs by distinguishing between single and additive policy types and providing intuitive user interfaces for policy selection and management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If single policy type is used for MFP configuration, then policy application is simple, but policy flexibility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments policies into distinct types (single policy type and additive policy type) with different application behaviors. This segmentation allows the system to handle different configuration needs differently - simple replacements versus flexible additions - thereby resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the policy type selected. When a single policy type is chosen, the system applies it as a replacement; when an additive policy type is chosen, the system merges it with existing policies. This dynamic response enables the system to provide both simple operation and high adaptability as needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additive policy type is used for MFP configuration, then policy flexibility and adaptability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting policies into distinct types with well-defined behaviors, the patent makes the complex additive policy management more manageable. The segmentation creates clear rules for when to use simple replacement versus complex addition, reducing the cognitive load on administrators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to administrators about the consequences of their policy selections. When choosing additive policies, the system can indicate how many existing policies will be affected or what the merge outcome will be, helping administrators make informed decisions and reducing unnecessary complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If physical configuration of each MFP is performed, then configuration accuracy is ensured, but time consumption and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables configuration copying through policy templates and remote policy deployment. Administrators can create a policy once and apply it to multiple MFPs remotely, copying the configuration without physical intervention. This maintains accuracy through consistent policy application while dramatically reducing time and labor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical process of physical configuration with automated policy deployment through the network. Instead of technicians manually configuring each device, the system uses software-based policy application to achieve the same configuration accuracy remotely and automatically.
4Ease of operation
If existing policies are replaced when applying new policies, then configuration simplicity is maintained, but operational continuity and monitoring are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments policy application into two distinct modes: replacement mode (single policy type) and addition mode (additive policy type). This segmentation allows administrators to choose the appropriate mode based on whether they need simple replacement or continuity-preserving addition, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its policy application behavior based on the selected policy type. The additive policy type specifically designed to merge with existing policies rather than replace them, maintaining operational continuity while still providing configuration simplicity through automated policy application.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method multifunction peripheral policy-based configuration includes a processor and a memory storing a policy data for each of a plurality of multifunction peripheral device configuration policies. A selectable list of the device policies is displayed. A user selects one or more device configuration policies from the list, and the processor tests selected device configuration policies. Policies are identified as single or additive policy types. Selected policies are added when not identified as a single policy type.