Image Forming Apparatus Simplifies Complex Printing via Storage Medium
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses require complex user operations for printing involving complicated image processing, making it difficult for users to set and perform special settings, such as copying images from both sides of an A4 sheet to one side of an A5 sheet or mixing double-sided and single-sided printing.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus allows for simpler operations by receiving operation information from a storage medium, such as a USB memory or wireless tag, which is input via a personal computer, enabling the display of a simple operation procedure on the device that requires fewer user inputs, allowing users to confirm settings with a single 'OK' button.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming apparatus uses conventional operation panels for setting printing parameters, then the device can perform complicated image processing functions, but the user operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring printing parameters and image processing settings on a personal computer before transferring them to the image forming apparatus. Users prepare complex settings in advance using familiar PC operations, then simply transfer the prepared data via storage medium, eliminating the need to perform complex operations on the device itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a storage medium as an intermediary between the personal computer and the image forming apparatus. The PC prepares the operation information and stores it on the medium, which then transfers to the apparatus without requiring direct complex interaction between the user and the device's operation panel.
2Manufacturing precision
If the image forming apparatus requires multiple setting operations for complicated printing tasks, then it can achieve precise printing control, but the operation time increases and causes congestion in public settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows users to perform all necessary printing parameter configurations and image processing settings in advance on their personal computers. This preliminary preparation includes setting magnification, orientation, color modes, and other precise printing controls, then transferring the complete configuration package to the image forming apparatus via storage medium, significantly reducing on-device operation time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming apparatus provides detailed operation panels for various settings, then users can perform complex image processing, but users experience stress and difficulty in operating the device
Solution Approach 1:
The storage medium acts as an intermediary that carries pre-prepared operation information from the personal computer to the image forming apparatus. This eliminates the need for users to directly interact with the complex operation panel, reducing user stress while maintaining full access to advanced image processing capabilities through the PC's familiar interface.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes an image reader, an input operation unit including a display, an interface configured to receive, from an external medium, setting information for processing of an image read by the image reader, and a controller. The controller is configured to control the display to display a first setting screen for processing the image when the setting information is not received from the external medium and to control the display to display a second setting screen for processing the image when the setting information is received from the external medium. The second setting screen indicates that an operational setting designated by the setting information has already been set on the image processing apparatus.