Image Forming Device Contract Terms Beyond Small Control Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulty in reading contract terms displayed on small control panels of printing devices.
Innovation Solution
An image forming device that allows users to view contract terms through both the control panel and alternative means, such as printing, emailing, or displaying a two-dimensional code, using a print engine, communication interface, and processor to output contract information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If contract terms are displayed on the control panel, then users can view contract information, but users have difficulty reading the terms when the control panel is small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning contract information display from the two-dimensional control panel screen to alternative output methods including printed paper documents, email transmissions to external devices, and two-dimensional codes that can be scanned with mobile devices. This resolves the readability problem by moving information to larger or more accessible display dimensions while maintaining accessibility for users with small control panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as printed papers, email systems, and two-dimensional code scanners as mediators between the control panel and the user. Instead of requiring direct reading from the small control panel, users can interact with these intermediary carriers that provide enlarged or more accessible representations of the contract information.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple output methods are provided for contract information, then user accessibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the printing device to perform multiple roles: it serves as both a conventional printer and as an information display device, email transmitter, and two-dimensional code generator. This allows a single device to provide diverse contract information output methods without requiring separate specialized devices, thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing users to autonomously select their preferred information output method (print, email, or two-dimensional code) through the control panel interface. The device automatically processes the selected option without requiring external intervention or complex configuration, simplifying the user experience while providing multiple output capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The image forming device a print engine, a display, a communication interface, and a processor. The processor determines whether a contract for the image forming device has been entered into and is in effect. When the determining determines that the contract for the image forming device has been entered into and is in effect, the processor displays specific contract information related to the contract on the display. The processor outputs information based on the specific contract information by at least one of printing an image based on the specific contract information with the print engine, sending an email based on the specific contract information to a terminal device via the communication interface, and displaying a two-dimensional code based on the specific contract information on the display.