Application Framework Segmentation for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multifunction machines, such as those with copy, print, and fax capabilities, face challenges in efficiently managing complex system architectures and application dependencies, leading to difficulties in adding or removing applications without requiring constant adjustments to the root application.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus separates applications into core logic and user interface frames, with a framework that manages life cycles and provides a defined application programming interface, allowing for independent operation and easy addition/deletion of applications by limiting inter-application links and using a manifest file to determine display settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If applications are integrated into a root application with shared logic, then application functionality is unified, but system activation time increases and synchronization dependencies arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monolithic root application into independent application modules, each with its own core logic and user interface frame. This segmentation allows applications to be loaded and activated independently, reducing system activation time by only loading necessary components rather than the entire application suite.
2Reliability
If applications share common processing logic in the root application, then system-wide functionality is maintained, but application independence and ease of addition/removal deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal framework that provides common processing logic and services that can be shared across multiple independent applications. This framework layer maintains system-wide functionality while allowing individual applications to remain independent and be added or removed without affecting others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a framework as an intermediary layer between the root application and individual applications. This framework mediates shared functionality and resources, allowing applications to access common processing logic without direct coupling, thereby maintaining both reliability and independence.
3Stability of the object's composition
If applications are tightly coupled with the root application, then system integration is strong, but device complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into distinct layers: the root application, the framework layer, and individual application modules. This segmentation reduces complexity by clearly defining boundaries and interfaces, making it easier to manage, add, or remove applications without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework acts as an intermediary that manages the relationships between the root application and individual applications. It handles integration concerns centrally, reducing the complexity of direct coupling and simplifying maintenance by providing a standardized interface layer.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an application on a framework, that is separated into a core logic portion handling basic processing and a user interface frame portion handling rendering processing and operates; and a controller that executes the application and the framework. The core logic portion is implemented with an application programming interface defined by the framework. The application includes plural applications including a specific application, a core logic portion of the specific application stores user information collectively in a user context, and a core logic portion of another application acquires the user information from the user context.