Image Forming Apparatus Continuous Copying Speed License Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses have inventory issues due to pre-set continuous copying speeds at factory shipment, and users cannot customize the continuous copying speed upon purchase, as previous methods do not provide a solution for setting this speed post-shipment.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a license installation mechanism that sets the continuous copying speed specified by the license, ensuring the apparatus is only activated if the speed is properly set, and allowing extension functions to be used only after the speed is configured.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the continuous copying speed is set at factory shipment, then the device can be activated immediately, but inventory risks increase due to pre-configured specific speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by setting a default continuous copying speed at factory shipment, enabling immediate device activation. The default speed allows the device to function right away, while the license mechanism later enables speed customization without requiring pre-configuration of multiple speed variants in inventory.
2Productivity
If the continuous copying speed is set at factory shipment, then basic functions can operate, but extension functions cannot be properly licensed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by setting a default continuous copying speed that enables basic functions to operate immediately upon device shipment. This default configuration allows the device to be productive right away, while the license management system remains intact to subsequently control and validate extension function usage based on the actual configured speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the license serves as a mediator between the default continuous copying speed setting and the extension function activation. The license verifies and controls which extension functions can be used based on the configured speed, ensuring proper licensing while maintaining basic functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the continuous copying speed is not set, then inventory flexibility is maintained, but the device cannot be activated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting a default continuous copying speed in the device before shipment. This default value serves as a placeholder that enables immediate device activation and basic operation, while allowing the license system to later customize the speed according to the purchased extension functions without preventing initial device use.
Data Source
AI summary
When a license for setting a continuous copying speed of an image forming apparatus is installed in the image forming apparatus, a continuous copying speed identified from the license is set as the continuous copying speed of the image forming apparatus.