Host Apparatus Function Information Segmentation for Image Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional host apparatuses do not provide users with clear information on whether an image forming apparatus supports specific functions or if the necessary programs are installed, leading to time-consuming and inconvenient processes for users to confirm functionality.
Innovation Solution
A host apparatus connected to image forming apparatuses that separately displays supported functions and provides information on installed programs, with the ability to automatically connect to websites for downloading installation programs as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the host apparatus provides comprehensive information on all functions of the image forming apparatus, then the user has complete information about available functions, but the user cannot easily determine which functions are actually supported or require additional programs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments function information into three distinct categories: supported functions (executable with installed programs), unsupported functions (requiring additional programs), and incompatible functions (cannot be executed). This segmentation is achieved by comparing the image forming apparatus's function list against the host apparatus's supported function list, allowing users to quickly identify which functions are immediately available versus which require additional setup.
2Ease of operation
If the host apparatus provides detailed information on function support status, then the user can easily confirm function compatibility, but the user still needs to manually check and download required programs
Solution Approach 1:
The host apparatus performs preliminary actions by automatically identifying which additional programs are needed for unsupported functions and proactively providing download links or initiating downloads before the user attempts to use those functions. This eliminates the need for users to manually search for and download required programs, saving time and simplifying the workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary information display that acts as a bridge between the image forming apparatus's full function list and the host apparatus's capabilities. This intermediary layer provides download information and installation guidance for missing programs, mediating between the user's functional needs and the system's actual capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If the host apparatus automatically downloads and installs programs for unsupported functions, then the user experience is maximally convenient, but the system complexity and resource usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The host apparatus implements a self-service mechanism where the system automatically manages program downloads and installations based on user needs. When a user attempts to use an unsupported function, the system automatically identifies the required program, provides download options, and can initiate installation without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining ease of operation while managing complexity through automation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a host apparatus which is connectable to an image forming apparatus and a compatible function information providing method thereof. The method includes: executing the integrated administration program of the host apparatus; receiving function information on at least one image forming apparatus; storing the received function information on the image forming apparatus; determining whether the function corresponding to the stored function information on the image forming apparatus is compatible with the integrated administration program or a sub application program within the integrated administration program; and separately displaying the integrated administration program or the sub application program corresponding to a determination result.