Folder Allocation Rule Editing for Flexible File Naming

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing folder allocation methods in information processing systems, such as MFPs, require complex user input changes when inserting a new folder between hierarchical layers, limiting flexibility and user convenience in setting folder allocation and file naming rules.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus with a user interface that allows users to easily set folder allocation and file naming rules through a display control unit, enabling users to select and arrange custom tokens for attribute names, which can be freely set and used across hierarchical layers, simplifying the process of creating and editing folder paths and file names.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a fixed hierarchical layer structure is used for folder allocation, then the system structure is simple and stable, but it becomes complex and cumbersome when inserting new folders between hierarchical layers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoidfolder insertion operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the folder allocation rule into multiple independent input fields, each corresponding to a specific hierarchical layer. Each input field can be independently edited and configured, allowing users to insert new folders between existing hierarchical layers without affecting the entire structure. This segmentation enables flexible modification of the folder allocation rules while maintaining overall system stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If attribute names are selected from a pulldown menu in each input field, then the selection process is straightforward, but users cannot create new attribute names or apply them to folder allocation rules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattribute name selectionVSAvoidcustom attribute creation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static pulldown menu into a dynamic input field that supports both pre-defined attribute selections and custom attribute creation. Users can input arbitrary attribute names directly into the input fields, and these custom attributes are automatically applied to the folder allocation rules. This dynamic approach enables users to adapt the system to their specific needs while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Stability of the object's composition

If input fields for attribute names are determined in advance for each hierarchical layer, then the configuration is simple and stable, but complicated work is required when inserting new folders between hierarchical layers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput field configurationVSAvoidtime for folder insertion
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the folder allocation rule into independent input fields for each hierarchical layer, allowing users to insert new folders by simply adding new input fields between existing ones. Each input field is independently configured and does not require reconfiguration of other fields, significantly reducing the time and complexity of folder insertion operations while maintaining stable configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240045006A1Information processing apparatus, control method thereof, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2024.02.08 CANON KK
  • US20240045006A1 patent drawing
  • US20240045006A1 patent drawing
  • US20240045006A1 patent drawing

AI summary

To enable a user to more easily set a rule relating to folder allocation and file naming at the time of filing data, such as a document scanned image and a received facsimile, and storing the file. On a user interface screen for setting a rule relating to property information that is used at the time of allocating a file to a folder for storage, at least a first area for editing the rule and a second area displaying an item a user can select are provided. The item is a unit element for a user to set a character string configuring the property information and corresponds to a character string of an arbitrary attribute a user can set. Then, the rule is created by the item selected by a user from the second area being arranged at a position designated by the user in the first area.