Image Forming Device Completion Time Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming devices face challenges in estimating the time required to complete printing on long roll paper, making it difficult for users to determine the completion period of printing operations.
Innovation Solution
An image forming device with a reader, image forming unit, display unit, and controller that calculates the required time to form images based on read image data and set conditions, allowing for the display of a completion period for both single and multiple original images, enabling accurate estimation of printing completion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If printing is performed on long roll paper, then the printing capability is improved, but the ability to estimate completion time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by calculating the printing speed based on test patterns printed before the actual long roll paper printing, and pre-calculates the estimated completion time displayed to the user before printing starts, enabling informed decision-making about the printing operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the actual printing speed during the printing process and comparing it with the predicted speed, then updating and re-displaying the estimated completion time to reflect current printing status, allowing users to track progress accurately
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple originals are read and added, then the image formation capability is improved, but the time required to form images increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculation of the time required to form images of multiple originals based on the first original's characteristics and the number of originals to be processed, displaying this estimated time to the user before the actual image formation process begins
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously updating the displayed time information during the image formation process, showing users the current status and remaining time, allowing them to monitor progress and make informed decisions about the ongoing multi-original processing
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming device includes an image reader that reads an image of a first original; a printing unit that prints an image read by the image reader on a recording medium; a touch panel; and a first controller that calculates, based on the image read by the image reader and a set print setting, a first required time period required to form the image of the first original, calculates, based on the first required time period, a second required time period required to form an image of a second original read by the image reader and added to the first original, calculates, based on the first required time period and the second required time period, a completion period for completing the printing by the printing unit, and displays on the touch panel the calculated completion period.