Independent Job Mode Control for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses lack user convenience due to the need for multiple operations to change job executing modes, especially when users want to switch between quiet-sound and usual modes during specific functions or mid-job, and they cannot change modes once a job has started.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an operating panel that allows users to set and change job executing modes for each function unit independently, using mode setting keys for quiet-sound and usual modes, enabling users to select different modes for scanning, printing, and copying functions without affecting other functions, and allowing mode changes during job execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the job executing mode is changed to quiet-sound mode for a predetermined function, then noise during job execution is reduced, but the user must return to usual mode when using other functions, increasing operation steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the job executing mode settings into separate setting portions for each function unit (scanning, printing, copying). This allows independent mode selection for each function, eliminating the need to switch modes globally when using different functions, thus reducing operation steps while maintaining noise reduction benefits for specific functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different job executing modes (quiet-sound or usual mode) locally to specific function units rather than globally to the entire apparatus. This enables noise reduction only where needed (specific function units) while keeping other functions operating in usual mode, optimizing both noise control and operational convenience.
2Reliability
If the job executing mode is set before starting a job, then the mode remains fixed during job execution, but users cannot change mode mid-job even when needed, reducing flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic changing of job executing modes during job execution by allowing mode switches at any time through the operating panel. The control portion receives mode change instructions during job execution and adjusts the operating state accordingly, providing both stability (mode can be set before job) and flexibility (mode can be changed during job).
3Ease of operation
If multiple operations are required to change job executing modes, then mode selection is controlled, but user convenience deteriorates due to increased operation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides separate setting portions for each function unit, allowing users to directly select modes for specific functions without navigating through multiple menus or performing multiple operations. This segmented approach simplifies the operation interface and reduces the number of steps required for mode selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables users to independently set and change modes for each function unit through the operating panel without requiring complex procedures or administrator privileges. Each function unit's mode can be adjusted autonomously, making the system user-friendly and reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming apparatus (100) includes a job executing portion (108), a mode setting portion (110), and an operating portion (109). The operating portion (109) accepts a function unit setting operation for setting a job executing mode in a function unit, the mode setting portion (110) sets the job executing mode in the function unit based on the function unit setting operation accepted by the operating portion (109), and the job executing portion (108) executes a job in the job executing mode set by the mode setting portion (110).