External Device Workflow Adaptation by Process Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Creating workflows for external devices from scratch can be cumbersome and inefficient, as the required functions may not be installed on these devices, hindering the execution of existing workflows from within a company's network.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that displays a list of existing workflows and allows users to replace processes in these workflows with device-specific functions, adapting the workflows to the capabilities of external devices like portable terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If workflows are created from scratch for external devices, then the workflows can be tailored to device capabilities, but the creation process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent stores device information (capabilities, functions, specifications) in advance in a database before workflow creation is needed. When creating workflows for external devices, the system retrieves pre-stored device information and automatically matches workflow processes with compatible device functions, eliminating the need to gather device information manually during workflow creation and significantly reducing creation time while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates workflows for external devices by copying and adapting from existing internal workflows. The system retrieves master workflows stored in the database, copies their structure and processes, and then automatically replaces internal device references with external device information from the database, enabling rapid workflow creation that is tailored to external devices without manual reconstruction
2Ease of manufacture
If existing internal workflows are used directly on external devices, then workflow creation is simplified, but the workflows cannot execute because required functions are not installed on external devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by customizing specific portions of workflows to match external device capabilities. The system analyzes each workflow process individually and replaces only those processes that require internal device functions with equivalent external device functions, while preserving processes that are device-agnostic. This selective adaptation ensures workflow executability on external devices while maintaining the overall workflow structure and simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a workflow management server as an intermediary between internal workflows and external devices. The server automatically retrieves device information from the database, performs function matching and process replacement, and generates adapted workflows that are guaranteed to be executable on the target external devices. This intermediary automation eliminates manual adaptation efforts while ensuring reliability
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a processor configured to: display on a device a flow list of flows that each include a series of processes and that have already been created; and create a flow for the device by replacing a process in a flow selected from the flow list by a user using the device with a process corresponding to device information set for the device.