Network Search Adaptation for Chrome OS and Android
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for an information processing apparatus to search for a communication apparatus, such as printers, are not adequately effective, particularly when using Chrome OS, as they may not support Wi-Fi Direct or face issues with broadcast and multicast searches due to firewall restrictions, leading to incomplete or failed apparatus discovery and scanning functions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a program that dynamically selects search methods based on the operating environment, using Android OS APIs for broadcast and multicast searches in the first environment, and Network Service Discovery (NSD) or unicast searches in the second environment, allowing for appropriate communication and scanning processes regardless of OS limitations, including support for Chrome OS by using the Chrome OS's capabilities to perform searches and transmit scan jobs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If broadcast or multicast search methods are used in Chrome OS environment, then the search process can be performed using standard protocols, but the search fails or is restricted due to firewall settings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the Android OS as an intermediary layer between the Chrome OS application and the network search functions. The Android OS's broadcast and multicast capabilities serve as a mediator that can perform apparatus searches despite Chrome OS firewall restrictions, allowing the application to access network devices through the Android OS's more permissive network stack.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the search functionality by implementing separate search processes for different OS environments. When running on Chrome OS, the system divides the search task into: (1) Android OS-level broadcast/multicast search, and (2) Chrome OS-level NSD/unicast search, combining results from both approaches to overcome individual limitations.
2Ease of operation
If Wi-Fi Direct search is used, then direct communication can be established, but the search may be incomplete when OS support is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic search method selection based on the detected OS environment. The system automatically adapts its search strategy: using Android OS APIs when available, switching to Chrome OS NSD/unicast methods when running on Chrome OS, and combining multiple approaches as needed to ensure comprehensive device discovery across different platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal search mechanism that works across multiple OS environments (Android OS and Chrome OS) by implementing multiple search methods (broadcast, multicast, NSD, unicast) within a single application. This multi-functional approach ensures the application can discover devices regardless of which OS it runs on.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple search methods are implemented to ensure compatibility, then coverage across different OS environments improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic environment detection and self-configuring search behavior. The system automatically detects whether it's running on Android OS or Chrome OS and selects the appropriate search methods without user intervention. This self-service approach manages complexity by making the system adaptive rather than requiring manual configuration of multiple search methods.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A program configured to perform a control method comprising performing (S411, S413), based on a predetermined program being run in a second operation environment, a second process for searching for an apparatus on a network to which a second information processing apparatus belongs using a second method different from a first method is provided to solve an issue.