Image Forming Apparatus Time Charging Fairness
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses that use a time charging method, users may be unfairly charged due to unforeseen issues like paper jams, and subsequent users are inconvenienced by not knowing when the previous user's print job will complete, leading to potential loss of business opportunities for the machine operator.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a time setting unit, usage time count unit, and print allowance determination unit that allows printing within a set time frame, enabling the selection between number-of-sheet and time charging methods, and includes features like auto-clear management, mode switching, and consumable item detection to optimize usage and minimize downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If time charging method is used, then charging fairness is improved, but user convenience deteriorates due to paper jams and other issues
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the actual printing state through detection units and provides feedback to adjust the charging calculation. When printing cannot be performed normally (paper jam, etc.), the system detects this state and adjusts the actual usage time accordingly, ensuring fair charging while maintaining user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming apparatus automatically detects printing abnormalities and calculates actual usage time without requiring manual intervention from users or managers. The system self-monitors its operational state and self-adjusts the charging calculation based on actual printing performance.
2Device complexity
If time charging method is used, then charging simplicity is improved, but subsequent user convenience deteriorates due to unknown completion times
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback about printing progress and estimated completion times to both current and subsequent users. This allows subsequent users to make informed decisions about whether to wait or use another machine, improving convenience while maintaining the simple time charging model.
Solution Approach 2:
The system calculates and displays the estimated completion time in advance based on the current printing state and speed. Subsequent users can see this information before deciding to wait, allowing them to plan accordingly without needing to physically wait and check.
3Measurement precision
If manual time management is implemented, then charging accuracy is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming apparatus automatically performs all time management functions including monitoring usage time, detecting printing abnormalities, calculating actual usage time, and determining when to stop charging. This eliminates the need for manual time management operations while maintaining high charging accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual time management operations with automated electronic detection and control mechanisms. Sensors and controllers monitor printing state and automatically adjust charging calculations, substituting human operations with electronic systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a time setting unit that sets a print allowable time according to the amount of advance payment, a usage time count unit that counts a usage time and a print allowance determination unit that determines, from the time setting unit and the usage time count unit, whether printing is allowed or prohibited. Before the time counted by the usage time count unit reaches the print allowable time, the print allowance determination unit allows the printing to be performed whereas after the time counted by the usage time count unit reaches the print allowable time, the print allowance determination unit prohibits the printing from being performed.