Networked Image Processing System Communication Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing systems face communication errors when trying to initiate encrypted data communication between a PC and an MFP, if the MFP lacks the necessary encrypted communication program.
Innovation Solution
The image processing system includes an image processing device and a computer connected via a network. The computer can perform data communication using both a first and a second communication method, while the image processing device has an image processing engine and a capability information repository. The computer retrieves capability information from the image processing device to determine if it supports the second communication method, and accordingly designates a port for either encrypted or unencrypted communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the PC initiates encrypted data communication with the MFP, then data security is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates when the MFP does not have the encrypted communication program installed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capability verification by checking whether the MFP has the encrypted communication program installed before initiating encrypted communication. The PC retrieves capability information from the MFP and determines the appropriate communication method in advance, preventing communication errors before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication method dynamically adapts based on the MFP's capabilities. The system can switch between encrypted communication (when MFP supports it) and unencrypted communication (when MFP does not support it), making the communication protocol flexible and adaptable to different device configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system supports multiple communication methods (encrypted and unencrypted), then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The PC is designed with universal communication capability, supporting both encrypted and unencrypted communication methods. This allows the same device to function with different communication protocols depending on the partner device's capabilities, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines the appropriate communication method by retrieving and analyzing capability information from the MFP. The PC self-adjusts its communication approach without requiring manual configuration or user intervention, simplifying the user experience despite the underlying complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image processing system including an image processing device and a computer. The image processing device and the computer are connected to a network. The computer has capability of performing data communication using a first communication or a second communication different from the first communication. The image processing device is configured to perform data communication in accordance with at least the first communication. The computer includes a controller configured to retrieve capability information stored in a capability information repository of the image processing device and determine whether the capability information includes second communication implementation information. When the capability information includes the second communication implementation information, the controller designates a port to perform the second communication and perform data communication using the second communication, and when the capability information does not include the second communication implementation information, the controller does not designate the port to perform the second communication.