Image Forming Apparatus Cloud Print Job Settings

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Solution Overview

Problem

In cloud-managed image forming systems, image forming apparatuses are limited to executing only minimum functions defined by the server, preventing the transmission of print jobs that include additional functions such as post-processing or color printing, even if the apparatuses are capable of executing them.

Innovation Solution

An image forming apparatus that receives a print job with incorporated setting information, allowing it to execute functions beyond the limited functions by reading and reflecting these settings to perform printing, such as through the use of matrix two-dimensional codes or annotations, enabling the execution of additional functions like authentication and color printing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the server relays print jobs with limited functions only, then cloud management compatibility is maintained, but the image forming apparatus cannot execute additional functions even if capable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoidprint settings information

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments print settings information into two parts: essential print data transmitted through the server, and additional setting information (such as authentication codes, color printing settings, post-processing instructions) embedded within the print data itself. This segmentation allows the server to relay basic print jobs while the apparatus can extract and execute additional functions from the embedded settings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by embedding setting information indicating additional functions directly into the print data before transmission. This pre-incorporation of authentication codes, color settings, and post-processing instructions ensures that when the print job reaches the apparatus, all necessary information for executing additional functions is already available, eliminating the need for separate transmission channels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If the server restricts print job transmission to minimum functions, then system compatibility is ensured, but user flexibility and operational capabilities are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser flexibilityVSAvoidsystem architecture

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the image forming apparatus universal by enabling it to handle both standard print jobs relayed through the server and additional functions through a unified interface. The apparatus can process print data containing embedded setting information for authentication, color printing, post-processing, and other additional functions, all through the same print job reception mechanism, eliminating the need for separate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the image forming apparatus to autonomously extract and interpret setting information embedded within the received print data. The apparatus automatically identifies authentication codes, determines color printing requirements, and executes post-processing operations without requiring additional user input or separate control signals, making the system easier to operate despite enhanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional functions are transmitted through the server, then functional capability is enhanced, but compatibility with cloud management systems is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoidsystem compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nested doll principle by embedding setting information indicating additional functions directly within the structure of the print data itself. The setting information is nested as part of the print job package that the server relays, allowing additional functions to be transmitted without creating a separate communication channel or compromising the server's relay mechanism. The apparatus extracts the nested settings to execute additional functions while maintaining server compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS11175871B2Image forming apparatus, non-transitory computer readable medium, and image forming system for receipt of print data including print settings

Publication Date: 2021.11.16 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An image forming apparatus includes: a reception unit that receives a print job in which setting information indicating print settings for printing print data is incorporated as part of the print data, and a control unit that performs printing according to the print settings indicated by the setting information incorporated in the print data of the print job.