Data Conversion Program for Image Forming Apparatus Model Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges when upgrading image forming apparatus models, as existing technologies do not efficiently convert type-format data from one model to another, leading to difficulties in transferring settings and information like address books and apparatus settings.
Innovation Solution
A data conversion program that converts pre-conversion type-format data into common-format data and then into post-conversion type-format data using specific conversion rule information, allowing for model-independent data transfer between different image forming apparatus models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If type-format data is converted directly from one model to another without common-format intermediary, then conversion process is simpler, but conversion accuracy and adaptability deteriorate due to model-specific format differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces common-format data as an intermediary format between model-specific type-format data. The conversion process involves two stages: first converting source model data to common format, then converting common format to destination model data. This intermediary approach resolves the contradiction by enabling accurate conversions between different models while maintaining process organization through standardized rules stored in conversion information storage units.
2Reliability
If model-specific type-format data is used for each image forming apparatus, then data compatibility within same model is maintained, but adaptability between different models deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by creating a common-format data structure that can serve as both the output of one model's conversion and the input for another model's conversion. The common format acts as a universal language that all image forming apparatus models can understand, enabling data portability across different models while maintaining the reliability of model-specific formats for internal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The common-format data serves as a mediator between model-specific formats, enabling adaptability between different models without compromising the reliability of individual model compatibility. The conversion information storage units provide the necessary translation rules to bridge different formats.
3Manufacturing precision
If conversion rules are stored separately for each model pair, then conversion accuracy is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by storing conversion rules as reusable templates in conversion information storage units. Instead of creating unique conversion logic for each model pair, the system copies and applies pre-defined conversion rules that can be reused across multiple model combinations, reducing complexity while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion information storage units contain universal conversion rules that can handle multiple model pairs through a single standardized structure. This multi-functional approach allows the system to maintain high conversion accuracy across different models without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium stores a data conversion program that converts pre-conversion type-format data for a first model of an image forming apparatus into post-conversion type-format data for a second model of the image forming apparatus. The data conversion program causes a computer to function as: i) a common-format conversion unit configured to convert the pre-conversion type-format data into common-format data of format independent of the model based on pre-conversion-data conversion rule information that indicates a rule for converting between the pre-conversion type-format data and the common-format data; and ii) a type-format conversion unit configured to convert the common-format data generated by the common-format conversion unit into the post-conversion type-format data based on post-conversion-data conversion rule information that indicates a rule for converting between the post-conversion type-format data and the common format data.