Dynamic Host Selection for Distributed Task Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing systems face inefficiencies in task performance as either multifunction peripherals or servers handle workflows, limiting flexible cooperation between them to perform complex tasks efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system and method that allow multiple information processing apparatuses to cooperate by defining work flow information, where one apparatus is designated as the host device to perform tasks, and another is selected based on predetermined conditions, enabling efficient task execution and flexible resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single device (multifunction peripheral or server) performs all tasks, then the system structure is simple, but task execution efficiency and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the task execution system into multiple independent devices (multifunction peripherals and servers), where each device can autonomously perform tasks based on work flow information. This segmentation allows distributed task execution, improving overall productivity while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by enabling both multifunction peripherals and servers to perform tasks defined in work flow information. The host device selection mechanism allows any capable device in the system to assume the host role for task execution, creating a multi-functional ecosystem that optimizes resource utilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the multifunction peripheral performs heavily loaded tasks, then device capability is utilized, but the server's role becomes redundant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic host device selection where the role of host device is not fixed but determined based on predetermined conditions. This dynamic allocation allows the system to adapt to varying task requirements and device capabilities, enabling flexible cooperation between multifunction peripherals and servers without creating redundant roles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of host device assignment from static to dynamic based on predetermined conditions. By modifying this key parameter, the system can adaptively assign tasks to appropriate devices, enhancing versatility while managing cooperation complexity through condition-based decision logic.
3Productivity
If work flow information specifies a fixed host device, then task execution is straightforward, but resource utilization is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where work flow information is executed by selecting a host device based on predetermined conditions, and the execution results are fed back to optimize future selections. This feedback loop enables continuous improvement of resource utilization while maintaining ease of operation through automated decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing system comprising: a plurality of information processing apparatuses that perform a plurality of tasks defined by work flow information, wherein the work flow information is information that defines an order of the tasks and defines an information processing apparatus that assumes a host device for performing each of the tasks, one information processing apparatus selected from among the information processing apparatuses is definable as the host device, the information processing apparatus defined as the host device performs each of the tasks defined in the work flow information in the defined order, and one information processing apparatus selected according to a predetermined determination condition performs a task for which the work flow information defines the one information processing apparatus selected from among the information processing apparatuses as the host device.