Image-Based Parameter Assumption for Cross-Device Operation Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing job memory function in image forming apparatuses does not store parameter changes and is not transferable between different apparatuses, leading to difficulties in reproducing operations on unfamiliar devices due to varying user interface configurations and content.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus with an assumption unit that analyzes captured images to infer parameter settings on a familiar device and stores these as operation records, enabling assistance in setting up unfamiliar devices through a parameter-setting assistance server.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the job memory stores only operated parts of screens, then the storage structure is simple, but parameter changes are not recorded and operations cannot be transferred to different apparatuses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransferability of operations between different apparatusesVSAvoidparameter change information

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the operation process by capturing screen images at different time points and analyzing them to extract parameter changes. This virtual copy allows the operation information to be stored and transferred without modifying the physical job memory structure, thereby achieving transferability while preserving complete parameter information.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediate processing layer between the screen display and the job memory. This layer captures screen images, analyzes them to detect parameter changes, and stores the extracted information. This intermediary mechanism enables complete operation recording while maintaining compatibility with existing job memory systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the user interface screen configuration is complicated with multiple functions, then the apparatus provides more capabilities, but the time to find and set parameters increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of functionsVSAvoidparameter setting time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary analysis of screen images to pre-extract parameter information before the user actually needs to set them. By capturing and analyzing screen states in advance, the system prepares operation information that can be quickly applied later, reducing the time users spend navigating complex interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system monitors screen changes, automatically detects parameter modifications, and provides this information back to the user or stores it for later use. This feedback loop eliminates the need for users to manually track parameter changes in complex interfaces, significantly reducing setting time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If different apparatuses have different user interface screen configurations, then each apparatus is optimized for its specific market, but operations cannot be reproduced on unfamiliar devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemarket-specific optimizationVSAvoidoperation reproduction on unfamiliar apparatus

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal operation representation by analyzing screen images rather than relying on apparatus-specific interface configurations. This universal representation can be applied across different apparatuses regardless of their specific UI designs, enabling operation reproduction on unfamiliar devices while preserving market-specific optimization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent captures and analyzes screen images as a universal copy of the operation state, independent of the specific apparatus interface. This visual copy can be processed and applied to any apparatus, bridging the gap between different UI configurations and enabling seamless operation transfer across diverse devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS11616891B2Information processing apparatus and non-transitory computer readable medium for analyzing an image capture in a time series with respect to content of parameter and making an assumption how user performed operation in an apparatus

Publication Date: 2023.03.28 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes an assumption unit and a storing unit. The assumption unit makes an assumption of content of a parameter set by a user by analyzing an image captured in a time series and depicting how the user performs an operation of a first apparatus designated as a target for recording the operation. The storing unit stores the assumed content of the parameter as an operation record.