Image Forming Apparatus N-in-1 Reduction Ratio Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in intuitively setting N-in-1 combinations, leading to print failures due to incorrect reduction ratios and inefficient paper usage, as users struggle to determine whether images fit properly in reduced sizes without proper preview guidance.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an input unit, setting unit, and display unit that allows users to set and adjust reduction ratios based on original image and paper orientations, comparing calculated ratios to ensure optimal fitting on the output paper, preventing print failures by automatically adjusting settings for N-in-1 combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If users manually set reduction ratios for N-in-1 printing, then paper usage can be optimized, but users may make operating errors causing print failures
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically calculates and sets the appropriate reduction ratio based on the number of pages to be combined (N-in-1), eliminating the need for manual user input. The control unit computes the reduction ratio autonomously, ensuring both optimal paper usage and accurate printing without user error.
Solution Approach 2:
The system displays a preview image showing how the combined pages will appear on the output paper, allowing users to verify the layout before printing. This feedback mechanism ensures users can confirm the reduction ratio is appropriate, preventing print failures while maintaining paper efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If users reduce preview images to determine N-in-1 settings, then they can visualize the output, but they cannot accurately determine if images fit properly
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a preview copy of the combined page layout on the display device, showing exactly how the N pages will be arranged on the output paper. This visual copy allows users to intuitively understand the reduction and layout without needing to mentally calculate or estimate the fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts the reduction ratio parameter based on the selected N-in-1 combination, ensuring that the preview image accurately reflects the actual printing outcome. The control unit calculates the precise reduction ratio needed to fit N pages on one output sheet, eliminating guesswork.
3Reliability
If automatic reduction ratio setting is implemented, then print failures are prevented, but user control over the setting is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic control where users can select different N-in-1 combinations (e.g., 2-in-1, 4-in-1, 8-in-1) and the control unit automatically adjusts the reduction ratio accordingly. Users retain control over the level of aggregation while the system handles the precise calculation, balancing automation with user intent.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculation and display of the reduction ratio and preview image before the actual printing occurs. Users can review the automatic settings and make adjustments if needed, ensuring the final print meets their requirements while benefiting from automated accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
When an instruction for combine setting is accepted, a reduction ratio of an original image is set as a first reduction ratio based on an orientation of the original image and an orientation of output paper. When an instruction to change the reduction ratio for the previewed original image is accepted, if a reduction ratio after the change (a second reduction ratio) falls within a prescribed range from the first reduction ratio, the first reduction ratio is set as a reduction ratio of the original image for arranging onto a sheet of output paper in combination.