Image Forming Device Handover with Authorization-Aware Connection Modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming apparatuses using NFC for handover to wireless LAN face issues when the mobile communication terminal lacks authorization to access the network, limiting the available connection methods.

Innovation Solution

The image forming apparatus is equipped with a short-range wireless communication unit that can operate in two modes: connecting to an external access point or functioning as an access point, allowing selection and writing of connection information based on user instructions or user information to suit the circumstances.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the MFP uses wireless LAN for handover from NFC, then communication convenience is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates when the mobile terminal lacks network authorization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication convenienceVSAvoidcommunication reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the connection method parameter based on authorization status. When the mobile terminal lacks network authorization, the system switches from wireless LAN mode to direct peer-to-peer communication mode, allowing communication to continue reliably without requiring network access rights.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic adaptation of connection methods. The MFP automatically detects whether the mobile terminal has network authorization and dynamically switches between different connection modes (wireless LAN when authorized, direct communication when not authorized), making the system flexible and adaptable to changing authorization conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the MFP supports multiple connection methods, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection method flexibilityVSAvoidcommunication control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through automatic detection and selection. The MFP automatically detects the mobile terminal's authorization status and connection capabilities, then autonomously selects and switches between appropriate connection methods without requiring manual user intervention, thereby managing complexity internally while presenting simplicity to the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses feedback mechanisms where the MFP detects the mobile terminal's authorization status and connection state, then adjusts the connection method accordingly. This feedback loop allows the system to adapt to changing conditions automatically, managing complexity through intelligent control based on real-time status information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12413948B2Image forming apparatus that performs handover, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2025.09.09 CANON KK
  • US12413948B2 patent drawing
  • US12413948B2 patent drawing
  • US12413948B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present image forming apparatus selects an appropriate connection method in accordance with circumstances from a plurality of connection methods when communication with an information processing apparatus is established by short-range wireless communication, and notifies information necessary for performing communication by the selected connection method to the information processing apparatus via short-range wireless communication.