Image Forming Apparatus Voice Output Prioritization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses with voice guidance functions require separate voice output devices and complex wiring for public announcements, making it difficult to output voice messages without additional setup, especially in office environments where multiple devices are often located in the same room.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with a voice output unit, storage unit for voice data, control unit for outputting voice guidance, and communication unit for connecting externally, allowing it to receive and output public announcement voice data without additional devices, and prioritize voice output based on device type and installation location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate voice output device is installed for public announcement, then public announcement function is achieved, but device complexity and wiring work increase
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker unit originally designed for voice guidance is made to serve dual purposes: it outputs both voice guidance from the image forming apparatus and public announcement messages received via the communication unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate voice output devices and reduces wiring complexity while maintaining the public announcement capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate voice output device is installed, then public announcement is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming apparatus uses its own existing speaker unit and communication unit to handle public announcement messages. The system receives announcement data through its communication unit and outputs it through its own speaker, making the apparatus self-sufficient for public announcement without requiring external voice output devices or additional wiring setup
3Device complexity
If existing voice output unit is used for public announcement, then device complexity is reduced, but voice output control becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit dynamically determines whether to output voice guidance or public announcement messages based on real-time conditions. When public announcement data is received via the communication unit, the control unit prioritizes outputting the announcement message through the speaker unit, suspending voice guidance if necessary. This dynamic control mechanism simplifies the configuration while providing clear voice output control
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunction peripheral (image forming apparatus) capable of voice guidance includes a voice output unit, a storage unit in which voice guidance data for voice guidance is stored, a control unit that performs control to output voice guidance from the voice output unit, and a communication unit that performs communication connection with an external apparatus. In a case where public announcement data that is transmitted from the external apparatus is received, public announcement based on the public announcement data is output from the voice output unit.