Server-Based Image Device Replacement With Settings Transfer Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users often continue using an operable old image processing device instead of transitioning to a replacement device due to the cumbersome process of transferring settings, hindering the adoption of the new device.

Innovation Solution

A data processing method involving a server that acquires data from the old device, stores it, and transfers it to the new device upon deactivation of prescribed functions in the old device, encouraging a smooth transition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If manual settings transfer process is used between image processing devices, then data accuracy is maintained, but user operation complexity increases and transition time is extended

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesettings data accuracyVSAvoidsettings transfer complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the first and second image processing devices. The server receives settings data from the first device, processes and stores it, then transmits it to the second device. This mediator approach ensures data accuracy through centralized management while automating the transfer process, eliminating manual intervention complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically acquiring and storing settings data from the first image processing device before the user needs it. The server proactively manages the settings transfer process, preparing the data in advance so that when the second device is activated, settings are already available, reducing user burden and transition time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If automatic settings transfer is implemented, then user operation is simplified, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice transition easeVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The server acts as an external intermediary that handles the complexity of automatic settings transfer. By moving the data management and transfer logic to a separate server system, the image processing devices themselves remain relatively simple. The server absorbs the architectural complexity, providing automatic transfer functionality without significantly complicating the endpoint devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing the first image processing device to automatically provide its settings data to the server, and the second device to automatically receive and apply settings from the server. This automated self-service approach simplifies user operation while distributing system complexity across multiple components rather than concentrating it in one device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If settings are transferred before deactivation, then user convenience is improved, but data loss risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransition smoothnessVSAvoidsettings data integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The server performs preliminary action by acquiring and storing settings data from the first image processing device before the device is deactivated. This ensures the data is captured while still available, preventing loss. The server then holds this data ready for transfer to the second device, ensuring both early availability and data integrity through secure storage during the transition period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The server as intermediary ensures data integrity by acting as a secure buffer between the first and second devices. It receives, validates, stores, and then transmits settings data, providing a controlled transfer process that prevents data loss or corruption. The mediator role ensures settings are reliably transferred only when appropriate, balancing user convenience with data integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12554446B2Data processing method for managing first image processing device and second image processing device using server
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US12554446B2 patent drawing
  • US12554446B2 patent drawing
  • US12554446B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data processing method is for managing first and second image processing devices using a server. In the method, the server receives a request to replace the first image processing device, acquires from the first image processing device data, and stores the acquired data as data originally stored in the first image processing device. The data originally stored in the first image processing device includes settings information. In the method, the server communicates with the second image processing device which is a replacement device. In a case that a prescribed condition is satisfied, the server sends the data originally stored in the first image processing device to the second image processing device. For satisfying the prescribed condition, satisfying a condition that a prescribed function of the first image processing device has been deactivated on the basis of the request received by the server is necessary.