Control Device for Precise Scanned Data Insertion in Files
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in easily designating insertion areas for scanned data within files when using the operation panels of image processing apparatuses, which are typically smaller than those of terminal devices, limiting the ease of inserting scanned data into files.
Innovation Solution
A control device and system that allows users to designate insertion locations for scanned data through a terminal device connected to a file storage server, enabling the scanner unit to generate scanned data and provide insertion requests to the server for precise placement within files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users operate the image processing apparatus directly through its operation panel, then the apparatus can function independently, but the user interface is limited by the small screen size making insertion area designation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a terminal device (such as a smartphone or PC) as an intermediary between the user and the image processing apparatus. The terminal device displays a detailed edit screen for designating insertion areas, while the image processing apparatus performs the actual scanning and image processing. This mediator resolves the contradiction by providing a large-screen interface without requiring the apparatus itself to be complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into two functional parts: the terminal device handles user interaction and display operations, while the image processing apparatus handles scanning and image processing. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function, with the terminal providing ease of operation and the apparatus maintaining functional independence.
2Ease of operation
If the operation panel is kept small and portable, then the apparatus remains compact and portable, but the user interface becomes insufficient for detailed operations like designating insertion areas
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device serves as an intermediary that provides the detailed user interface for designating insertion areas, while the image processing apparatus maintains its compact form factor. The terminal's large display compensates for the apparatus's small operation panel, resolving the contradiction between portability and interface capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface is moved from the two-dimensional constraint of the apparatus's operation panel to the terminal device's larger display area. This dimensional expansion of the interface space allows detailed operations like insertion area designation without increasing the physical size of the apparatus.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the image processing apparatus integrates all functions including file editing, then it can operate independently, but the operation complexity increases on a small device
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device acts as an intermediary that handles complex file editing operations through its superior interface capabilities, while the image processing apparatus maintains independent operation capability for scanning and basic functions. This division resolves the contradiction by placing complexity where it can be managed effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves versatility through the terminal device's ability to handle multiple file operations (editing, saving, sharing) while the image processing apparatus focuses on its core scanning function. This multi-functionality is distributed across devices rather than concentrated in the small apparatus, maintaining simplicity where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device is configured to: control the scanner unit, when a first instruction is received from a user to insert a first scanned data in a first file stored in a file storage server, to scan a document to generate the first scanned data; and to provide a first insertion request to the file storage server through a communication interface, the first insertion request requesting the file storage server to insert the first scanned data at a target location in the first file, the target location being a location designated by the user through a terminal device that is configured separately from the control device.