Dynamic Workflow Control for Image Processing File Size Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing workflows fail to dynamically adjust processes based on changes in data type and file size, leading to inefficiencies in image processing and delivery.

Innovation Solution

An information processing system that includes a multi-function printer (MFP), a workflow processing server, and a document management server, which dynamically controls workflow processing by monitoring and updating the file size of electronic documents, allowing for flexible adjustments in processing based on original and latest file sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a predetermined workflow is executed without dynamic adjustment, then the workflow processing is simple and stable, but the workflow cannot adapt to changes in data type and file size

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkflow adaptabilityVSAvoidworkflow control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The workflow control unit dynamically adjusts the workflow based on file size changes. The system monitors file size at different stages and automatically selects subsequent processes according to predetermined conditions, transforming a static workflow into a dynamic one that adapts to changing data characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring file size and using this information to control subsequent workflow steps. The workflow control unit receives feedback about file size changes and adjusts the processing sequence accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual data conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If file size monitoring and dynamic workflow adjustment are implemented, then processing efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining multiple workflow patterns and conditions before execution. The workflow control unit is configured with predetermined rules that specify which processes to execute based on file size thresholds, allowing the system to make decisions without complex real-time calculations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The workflow is segmented into multiple independent process stages, each with specific entry conditions. The system divides the overall processing into discrete steps that can be independently controlled and selected based on file size metrics, making the complex workflow manageable through modular organization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Quantity of substance

If compression processing is always applied, then file size is reduced for efficient transmission, but processing time increases and original quality may be lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefile sizeVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies compression processing partially rather than always. Based on file size thresholds and transmission requirements, the workflow control unit selectively applies compression only when necessary, avoiding unnecessary processing time expenditure while still achieving size reduction when beneficial

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP3293957B1Information processing apparatus, information processing method and carrier means
Publication Date: 2022.11.02 RICOH CO LTD
  • EP3293957B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3293957B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3293957B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes a control unit (220, 2000) and acquisition unit (221, 2000). The control unit (220, 2000) executes processing on data according to a workflow. The workflow defining a plurality of processes in a predetermined order. The acquisition unit (221, 2000) obtains a first size of the data after a specific process of the plurality of processes is performed on the data. The control unit (220, 2000) performs a subsequent process on the data based on the first size of the data, the subsequent process being one of a plurality of subsequent processes each of which is defined as a process subsequent to the specific process in the workflow.