DLNA Fax Notification Control Point Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses lack the ability to notify a control point of fax reception information using the DLNA standard, limiting their functionality and making it difficult for users to identify received faxes, especially in publicly used machines.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus connected to a DLNA network that includes a fax unit, communication interface, address management unit, and DLNA stack unit to search for and notify selected control points of fax reception information, allowing for priority-based notification and direct transmission of fax data to preset control points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional image forming apparatus output methods are used (direct output or storage in memory), then the apparatus can process fax data, but users must manually approach the apparatus to check and confirm received faxes, reducing convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control point as an intermediary device between the fax receiving apparatus and the user. The control point receives notification of fax reception and displays fax information, allowing users to check faxes remotely without approaching the physical apparatus. This mediator resolves the contradiction by enabling convenient fax access while eliminating the need for manual user presence at the device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DLNA control protocol is used for printing and scanning jobs, then the apparatus can communicate with control points, but there is no method of controlling fax jobs between control point and image forming apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the existing DLNA control protocol framework to include fax job control functionality. By making the DLNA system universal and multi-functional, it can now handle not only printing and scanning jobs but also fax reception notification and control. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining protocol adaptability while adding reliable fax control capability through unified DLNA-based communication.
3Quantity of substance
If fax data is stored in the image forming apparatus memory or file server, then the data can be retained, but it is difficult to identify to which user the received fax is sent in publicly used fax machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control point receives notification of fax reception and displays information including the fax recipient identification. This feedback loop provides users with immediate information about which user the fax is sent to, resolving the contradiction by maintaining data storage capability while preventing loss of user identification information through active notification and display.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus is provided that includes a fax unit which receives fax data; a communication interface which searches for connectable control points; an address management unit which selects a control point to be notified of fax reception information from among the searched control points; and a DLNA stack unit which notifies the selected control point of the fax reception information through the communication interface.