Image Forming Apparatus Function Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses allow users to inadvertently switch functions or modify settings while operating conditions are being set, leading to unintended changes or losses of settings due to misoperation, causing user annoyance and potential errors in copying counts or transmission destinations.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a controller that locks the selected function and its settings, preventing changes to other functions until the user intentionally switches or resets, ensuring that settings for the chosen function are maintained and preventing accidental changes or additions during the operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating condition is set on a setting screen, then the user can configure function parameters, but the user can inadvertently change functions or modify settings due to misoperation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic state changes in the setting screen based on operation detection. When a setting value is input, the screen transitions from an editable state to a locked state, preventing further modifications. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of operation during setting while ensuring reliability after setting completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback by changing the display state of setting domains - showing them in an editable state initially, then transitioning to a locked state after input. This feedback mechanism informs users when their settings are protected from accidental changes, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and setting accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If further setting operation is permitted in the same setting domain after copy count or destination is set, then the user can adjust settings, but settings may be changed or added due to user's misoperation
Solution Approach 1:
The setting domain dynamically changes its operational state based on whether a value has been input. Initially allowing multiple edits for flexibility, it then locks to prevent further changes for stability. This resolves the contradiction between adaptability and reliability by timing the restriction appropriately.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs a preliminary locking action immediately after detecting setting value input. This preliminary protection prevents subsequent misoperations while maintaining the ability to make intended adjustments, resolving the contradiction between setting flexibility and stability.
3Ease of operation
If function selection is allowed during setting, then the user can switch between functions, but all settings until then are reset
Solution Approach 1:
The setting screen implements dynamic function switching capability that activates only after setting completion. During the setting phase, function switching is restricted to preserve settings. After locking, full function switching freedom is restored. This resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and time loss by sequencing the restrictions appropriately.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus has a plurality of functions and permits setting an operating condition for each of the functions. The image forming apparatus includes: an operating portion used for operation of selecting each of the functions and setting the operating condition; an image processor that performs an image processing in a manner that depends on a function selected and an operating condition set at the operating portion; and a controller that controls the operating portion and the image processor. If one of the functions is selected at the operating portion and a setting is determined on a predetermined operating condition that is settable within the selected function, the controller prohibits the selected function from being changed to another function.