Function Extension Module Control via Variable Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing apparatuses require multiple programs to control different optional devices, leading to increased development time and cost, as each device necessitates new hardware and software, even for simple function extension.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus comprising a basic control module and a function extension module, where extension setting information is stored in the function extension module to enable the basic control module to control the function extension module without requiring new program development, using a variable connection path set based on acquired extension setting information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control programs are stored in the information processing apparatus to support different optional devices, then the adaptability to various devices is improved, but the storage capacity requirement and development cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the device-specific control logic from the main information processing apparatus and relocates it to the optional devices themselves. Each optional device contains its own control program and operational logic, which are executed locally rather than being stored in the central apparatus. This extraction eliminates the need for the apparatus to store multiple device-specific programs, thereby reducing storage capacity requirements while maintaining full adaptability to various optional devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The information processing apparatus is designed with a universal interface and control mechanism that can work with any optional device regardless of its specific function. The apparatus provides a standardized connection interface and generic control capabilities that adapt to different devices through the devices' own embedded control programs. This universal design allows the apparatus to support multiple device types without requiring device-specific software, thus reducing storage needs while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new control programs are developed for each additional optional device, then the functionality is extended, but the development time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control programs and operational logic are pre-installed in the optional devices themselves during their manufacturing process. When an optional device is connected to the information processing apparatus, it automatically executes its pre-loaded control program, enabling immediate functionality without requiring any new program development or installation at the apparatus level. This preliminary action eliminates iterative development cycles for each new device type.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optional device is designed to be self-sufficient with its own embedded control program that automatically executes upon connection. The device performs self-configuration and self-control without requiring external program installation or customization from the apparatus side. This self-service approach allows new optional devices to be integrated immediately upon connection, eliminating the need for time-consuming program development and installation processes.
3Manufacturing precision
If device-specific control programs are stored in the information processing apparatus, then the control precision for each device is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two distinct components: a universal control interface in the information processing apparatus and device-specific control programs in each optional device. The apparatus handles only generic connection management and data transmission, while each device independently manages its own specific control logic. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the main apparatus while maintaining precise control over each device through its dedicated embedded program.
Solution Approach 2:
The optional device itself acts as an intermediary between the universal apparatus interface and the device-specific control requirements. The device's embedded control program translates the generic commands from the apparatus into device-specific operations, ensuring precise control without requiring the apparatus to contain complex device-specific logic. This intermediary approach maintains control precision while keeping the apparatus simple and universal.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a basic control module and a function extension module. The function extension module includes a storage unit in which extension setting information for enabling the basic control module to control the function extension module to execute a function is stored in advance, and a setting information transmission unit that transmits the extension setting information to the basic control module. The basic control module includes a setting information acquisition unit that acquires extension setting information, a variable path setting unit that sets, based on the acquired extension setting information, a variable connection path via which to transfer information for controlling the function extension module, and an extension function execution unit that transfers the information for controlling the function extension module via the set variable connection path using the acquired extension setting information and to control the function extension module to execute the function.