Image Capture Apparatus Network Switching for Printing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Image capture apparatuses cannot connect to the Internet when connected to a wireless network formed by a print apparatus, limiting their ability to download images from online storage or social networks without an external network.
Innovation Solution
An image capture apparatus with a communication interface that joins a wireless network generated by a print apparatus, recognizes information for joining the network, and performs control to acquire and leave the network as needed for printing instructions, minimizing connection time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the image capture apparatus joins the wireless network generated by the print apparatus, then it can print images directly without external network, but it cannot connect to the Internet or download images from online services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network switching where the image capture apparatus automatically transitions between different network modes (direct wireless network with print apparatus, external network with Internet access, and combined modes) based on the current printing task requirements and Internet access needs, allowing flexible adaptation to different operational contexts
2Reliability
If the image capture apparatus remains connected to the print apparatus's wireless network, then it can perform printing operations, but it loses Internet access and cannot download images from online storage or social networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic network reconnection where the image capture apparatus temporarily disconnects from the print apparatus's wireless network to restore Internet access, then reconnects when printing operations are needed, creating a periodic switching pattern that balances printing reliability with Internet availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary Internet access operations (downloading images from online storage or social networks) before connecting to the print apparatus's wireless network for printing, ensuring that all necessary data is available offline before the printing session begins
3Adaptability or versatility
If the image capture apparatus frequently connects and disconnects from the print apparatus's wireless network, then it can maintain Internet access, but it increases connection establishment time and network switching overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary network configuration and authentication during the first connection to the print apparatus's wireless network, storing connection credentials and network parameters for rapid reconnection, so that subsequent connections require minimal setup time
Data Source
AI summary
An image capture apparatus comprises a communication interface configured to join a wireless network generated by a print apparatus and a control unit configured to perform control so as to execute information acquisition processing in response to recognized information for joining the wireless network. The control unit performs control so as to join the wireless network generated by the print apparatus based on information read by an image capturing unit, acquire information regarding the print apparatus, and leave the wireless network generated by the print apparatus, and when an instruction to print an image is accepted in a state where the information regarding the print apparatus has been acquired, the image capture apparatus joins the wireless network generated by the print apparatus, and instructs the print apparatus to print an image, via the wireless network.