Data Unit Linkage Transfer for Application Continuity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses do not allow an operation unit to use applications when it is connected to a different main body unit, as the application data storage is tied to the original paired main body unit, preventing seamless transfer or use of applications across different units.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with separate storage locations for applications and application data, where the data unit determines if the application unit is linked and, if not, obtains the application data from a second data unit, allowing the application to function even when connected to a different main body unit by storing the necessary data and linking information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the operation unit is connected to a different main body unit, then the operation unit can be used with another device, but the application cannot be used because the application data is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The data unit proactively determines whether the connected application unit is linked to it before the application needs to run. When the application unit is not linked, the data unit preemptively obtains the necessary application data from the second data unit, ensuring the data is ready before the application execution is attempted.
Solution Approach 2:
The data unit acts as an intermediary between the application unit and the second data unit. It receives requests from the application unit, determines whether it should provide data, and if not, obtains data from the second data unit to fulfill the application's needs, thereby mediating the connection between separate storage locations.
2Reliability
If the application data is stored only in the paired main body unit, then the data security and association are maintained, but the operation unit cannot function with other main body units
Solution Approach 1:
The data unit is designed to serve multiple functions: it can provide application data for its paired application unit, obtain data from other data units when needed, and maintain linking information for future reference. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different connection scenarios while maintaining data security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state of the linking information parameter to determine whether the application unit is linked to the current data unit. Based on this parameter change, the data unit dynamically adjusts its behavior - either providing data directly or obtaining it from a second data unit, thereby adapting to different connection configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the application and application data are stored separately, then the system flexibility is improved, but the application cannot be used when connected to a different main body unit
Solution Approach 1:
The data unit implements a feedback mechanism by determining whether the connected application unit is linked to it. Based on this feedback information, the data unit decides whether to provide data directly or to obtain data from a second data unit, ensuring the application can function regardless of the connection configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Before the application attempts to run, the data unit proactively determines the linking status and obtains necessary data from the second data unit in advance. This preliminary action ensures that when the application needs to execute, the required data is already available, maintaining ease of operation despite separate storage.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the claimed invention, an information processing apparatus comprises an application unit in which at least one application is installed; and a data unit configured to store application data corresponding to the at least one application, wherein the application unit and the data unit can be connected to or separated from each other, the data unit determines, when connected to the application unit, whether the connected application unit is linked to the data unit, and in a case in which the application unit is not linked to the data unit, the data unit obtains the application data from a second data unit linked to the connected application unit, stores the obtained application data, and causes the connected application unit to store information to link the data unit connected to the application unit.