Image Forming Apparatus Automatic Scene Switching via Terminal Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing image forming apparatuses are inconvenient to use when switching scenes from an operation panel, especially when used with external terminal devices, leading to reduced user convenience due to complex operation instructions.

Innovation Solution

An image forming apparatus with a control unit that switches settings based on registered usage scenes associated with terminal device information, allowing automatic scene switching when a job is received from the terminal device, thereby simplifying the user experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the user switches the scene from the operation panel of the image forming apparatus, then the main body setting can be changed to suit each application, but the operation becomes inconvenient and complex when using the apparatus from a terminal device

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemain body setting adaptabilityVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The image forming apparatus automatically detects the terminal device and switches to the appropriate scene setting without requiring manual user input. The system serves itself by autonomously selecting and applying the correct scene based on the connected terminal device, eliminating the need for users to manually switch scenes from the operation panel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system receives feedback from the terminal device connection and automatically adjusts the main body settings accordingly. When a terminal device connects, the apparatus detects this input and responds by switching to the pre-registered scene associated with that terminal device, creating a feedback loop that automates the setting adjustment process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual scene switching is implemented through the operation panel, then different usage scenes can be selected, but the operation instructions become complicated and reduce user convenience

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveusage scene selectionVSAvoidoperation instruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus automatically performs the scene switching function without requiring users to follow complex operation instructions. By detecting the connected terminal device and autonomously selecting the appropriate scene, the system eliminates the need for users to navigate through complicated menus or understand complex operation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary configuration by pre-registering multiple scene settings associated with different terminal devices before actual use. This advance preparation allows the apparatus to automatically apply the correct scene without requiring users to manually configure settings or follow complex instructions during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If automatic scene switching based on terminal device information is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but the system requires additional functionality to detect and respond to terminal devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidsystem functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The image forming apparatus integrates multiple functions including terminal device detection, scene management, and automatic setting switching within a single system. The control unit is designed to handle both traditional operation panel controls and automatic terminal device-based scene switching, making the system universal and multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12175146B2Image forming apparatus for switching a menu corresponding to a registered terminal
Publication Date: 2024.12.24 CANON KK
  • US12175146B2 patent drawing
  • US12175146B2 patent drawing
  • US12175146B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The image forming apparatus is capable of switching settings according to a usage scene, and includes a control unit that, when a job is received from a terminal device, controls switching to the setting corresponding to the usage scene registered in association with information of the terminal device.