Image Forming Apparatus Evacuation Information Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the event of a disaster, if an image forming apparatus is unable to print evacuation information due to lack of consumables or mechanical issues, users cannot access essential information on alternative apparatuses that can print this information.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is equipped with a memory to store evacuation information and a display controller that, if the printer fails, directs users to nearby apparatuses capable of printing this information, utilizing a management server to determine and communicate substitute apparatuses via a network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the printer stores and prints evacuation information locally, then users can quickly access evacuation information during a disaster, but the system becomes vulnerable to failure when the printer is unable to print due to consumable depletion or mechanical issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple image forming apparatuses into a collaborative network where each device stores evacuation information and can serve as a substitute for others. This merging approach ensures that if one apparatus fails to print, users can access information from another apparatus in the network, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex centralized infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each image forming apparatus is designed with multi-functionality: it can print its own stored evacuation information, display information from other apparatuses, and provide substitute printing services. This universal capability ensures continuous availability of evacuation information across the network even when individual devices fail.
2Reliability
If the system provides substitute apparatus information when printing fails, then users can still access evacuation information through alternative devices, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional steps required
Solution Approach 1:
When a printer is unable to print evacuation information, the system automatically displays information about substitute apparatuses on the failed device's display unit. This self-service approach provides users with alternative options without requiring them to actively search for other devices, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring information accessibility.
3Productivity
If the management server manages substitute apparatus information across the network, then the system can efficiently route users to working devices, but the device complexity and network infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The management server continuously monitors the printing status of apparatuses in the network and maintains updated information about which devices are operational. When a user requests evacuation information, the server provides feedback about the status of various apparatuses and guides the user to an available substitute device, improving information access efficiency through real-time status awareness.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a memory that stores evacuation information for use in an event of a disaster, a printer that prints the evacuation information stored in the memory in the event of a disaster, and a display controller that performs, if the printer is unable to print the evacuation information, control to display information on an installation place of a different image forming apparatus that is able to print the evacuation information in place of the image forming apparatus.