Image Forming Apparatus Controller Adding Type-Specific Tracking Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses lack the capability for flexible output management of image information as printed matter, particularly in terms of securely managing and adding additional information based on the type of image information.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with controllers that manage the addition of unique additional information to image information, incorporating a code related to this information, which differs based on the type of image information being printed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional information is added to image information to enable flexible output management, then the capability for secure management and tracking is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds additional information within the existing image information structure. The controller adds metadata and tracking information nested inside the image data stream, allowing secure management without requiring a completely separate system. This nesting approach enables the image forming apparatus to maintain existing functionality while incorporating enhanced security and tracking capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary information structure that bridges the existing image information and the new security/management requirements. This intermediary layer includes additional information fields and metadata structures that facilitate secure management without directly modifying the core image formation process, thus managing system complexity through modular information architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different additional information is given based on the type of image information, then the adaptability for different document types is improved, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring additional information to specific types of image information. The controller identifies the document type (e.g., copyright-protected images, personal information images) and applies appropriate additional information fields and metadata accordingly. This localized approach enables high adaptability for different document types while managing control complexity through type-specific processing rules rather than a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes to adapt the additional information based on image information types. The controller modifies parameters such as the type, format, and content of additional information according to the detected image category. By changing information parameters dynamically based on input type, the system achieves versatility without requiring fundamentally different control mechanisms for each document type.
3Reliability
If code related to additional information is formed and printed, then the trackability and security of printed matter is improved, but the printing time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the additional information coding process with the existing image formation process. The controller integrates code generation and additional information embedding into the single printing operation, rather than performing separate steps. This merging enables trackability and security features to be added without requiring additional printing time, thus maintaining productivity while improving reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes one or more controllers that control giving of additional information to image information, and an image former that forms an image of a code related to the additional information to be given to an image of the image information in a case where the additional information is given under control of the one or more controllers. The one or more controllers give, to the image information, the additional information that differs in response to a type of the image information.