Folder Workflow Selection for Flexible Job Data Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing systems fail to allow selection of a workflow when a folder stores multiple workflows, limiting flexibility and efficiency in processing job data.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus and method that enable users to designate a workflow to be executed from among multiple workflows associated with a folder, allowing for user input to select, change, suspend, or cancel workflows, and provide progress information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a folder is associated with multiple workflows automatically, then workflow execution is determined systematically, but user flexibility to select specific workflows is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic workflow determinationVSAvoiduser selection flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts workflow determination between automatic and manual modes. When a folder is associated with multiple workflows, the system can switch between automatic selection (when one workflow is associated) and manual selection (when multiple workflows are associated), making the determination process flexible and adaptable to different scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit acts as an intermediary between the automatic workflow determination mechanism and user selection. It manages the transition between automatic execution and manual selection by receiving user input and determining which workflow to execute based on both system rules and user preferences

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If automatic workflow execution is implemented, then processing efficiency is improved, but user control over workflow selection is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoiduser control

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where user selections are received and processed by the control unit. The control unit uses this feedback to determine which workflow to execute, balancing automatic efficiency with user control by adapting to user preferences while maintaining systematic processing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple workflows are associated with a folder, then system versatility is enhanced, but workflow selection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkflow association flexibilityVSAvoidworkflow selection mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The workflow selection mechanism is segmented into clear cases: when one workflow is associated with a folder, execution is automatic; when multiple workflows are associated, manual selection is enabled. This segmentation simplifies the overall complexity by dividing the selection process into distinct, manageable scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12517644B2Information processing apparatus, non-transitory computer readable medium, and information processing method

Publication Date: 2026.01.06 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes a processor configured to: receive, in response to storage of a file in a folder associated with multiple workflows, designation of selecting a workflow to be executed using the file from among the multiple workflows from a user; and execute the workflow for which the designation is received.