Copier Temporary Storage for Reprint Without Rescanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional copiers and printing devices require permanent or semi-permanent memory to reprint images, which increases cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A copier apparatus with temporary storage that deletes images after printing unless instructed to reprint, allowing for reprinting without rescanning by using a processor connected to the scanner, printing engine, and user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If permanent or semi-permanent memory is used to store images for reprinting, then the ability to reprint images is achieved, but the cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the image storage function from permanent/semi-permanent memory and relocates it to temporary memory that retains images between scanning cycles. This eliminates the need for expensive permanent storage while maintaining reprinting capability, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs temporary memory that automatically purges images after a predetermined period or when not in use, rather than using permanent storage. This disposable approach to memory management reduces hardware costs and complexity while still enabling the required reprinting functionality during active use periods
2Adaptability or versatility
If permanent or semi-permanent memory is used to store images for reprinting, then the ability to reprint images is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive permanent storage component from the system by using temporary memory that leverages existing RAM or volatile storage already present in the device. This extraction of the storage function from permanent memory directly reduces manufacturing cost while preserving the reprinting adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive temporary memory that does not require permanent retention of images, replacing costly permanent storage solutions. This approach achieves the required reprinting capability at a lower cost by accepting that images will be lost after the temporary storage period expires
3Device complexity
If images are stored in temporary memory and deleted after printing, then cost and complexity are reduced, but the ability to reprint without rescanning is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by automatically retaining images in temporary memory after printing completes, making them available for immediate reprinting without requiring the user to rescane. This preliminary retention of image data enables convenient reprinting while using low-cost temporary storage, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and operational ease
4Ease of manufacture
If temporary storage is used without permanent memory, then cost and complexity are reduced, but image retention time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by configuring the temporary storage to retain images for a predetermined period or until explicitly deleted, ensuring images are available for reprinting operations. This preliminary retention strategy extends the effective duration of image availability within the constraints of temporary storage, balancing cost reduction with functional requirements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces cost and complexity by eliminating the need for permanent storage, enabling efficient reprinting of images directly from temporary memory without rescanning, thus increasing productivity and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a scanner for acquiring at least one image to be copied
Implementation Method 2
By using an electrophotographic process, the latent image on the photosensitive drum is developed, and is transferred onto a sheet
Implementation Method 3
a latent image is recorded on a photosensitive drum by using a semiconductor laser
Data Source
AI summary
A copier apparatus includes a scanner for acquiring at least one image to be copied. Temporary storage is adapted to temporarily store the image only until the next subsequent print/copy job is scanned. At least one printing engine is used to print the image on a medium. In addition, a processor is preset to delete the image from the temporary storage after completion of printing of the image by the printing engine unless the user interface has previously received an instruction to reprint the image. If the user provides an instruction to reprint the image, the user interface is adapted to display a menu of reprint options. Then the image can be reprinted without having to be rescanned.