Image Processing System Device-Specific Program Discovery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users are not aware of device-specific functions provided by manufacturers for image processing apparatuses, leading to underutilization, as existing technologies like driverless systems do not effectively support these functions.

Innovation Solution

An image processing system that includes an information processing apparatus with a universal image processing program and a user interface, which transmits execution requests to the image processing apparatus using a specific protocol, and displays a URL for downloading a specific image processing program compatible with the apparatus, enabling users to access and install device-specific functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If driverless technology with universal image processing program is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device-specific functions cannot be utilized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice-specific functions
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting device-specific functions, searching for compatible programs, and preparing installation packages before the user explicitly requests them. The information processing apparatus proactively identifies the need for device-specific programs and prepares the installation environment in advance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that bridges the universal image processing program and device-specific functions. This intermediary automatically searches for, downloads, and installs device-specific programs when needed, allowing users to access enhanced functionality without manually configuring complex installation processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If device-specific programs are provided by manufacturers, then adaptability or versatility is improved, but users are not aware of their availability leading to loss of information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice-specific functionsVSAvoiduser awareness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the information processing apparatus continuously monitors device capabilities and provides users with information about available device-specific programs. The system feeds back installation status, program compatibility information, and usage benefits to keep users informed about available functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables self-service by allowing the system to automatically manage the distribution and installation of device-specific programs. The information processing apparatus independently searches for, downloads, and installs appropriate programs based on detected device functions, reducing the need for manual user intervention while ensuring users are informed of available options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If automatic installation is performed as in Publication '575, then productivity is improved, but driverless technology and device-specific function promotion are not addressed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoiddevice-specific functions
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the operational context. It can switch between automatic installation modes for universal programs and on-demand installation modes for device-specific functions. The installation process is made dynamic by detecting user needs and device capabilities in real-time, adjusting the level of automation accordingly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by detecting variations in device capabilities, program compatibility, and user preferences to determine the appropriate installation approach. The system changes installation parameters such as automation level, program selection criteria, and user notification methods based on detected conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11093182B2Image processing system including image processing apparatus and information processing apparatus configured to inform user that specific image processing program for image processing apparatus is available
Publication Date: 2021.08.17 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US11093182B2 patent drawing
  • US11093182B2 patent drawing
  • US11093182B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing system is provided with an image processing apparatus and an information processing apparatus including an operating system and a display. When receiving a specific user's operation regarding the image processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus transmits an execution request to the image processing apparatus using a specific protocol, which is a protocol used when communicating with the image processing apparatus according to a universal image processing program incorporated in the operation system. When receiving the execution request using the specific protocol, the image processing apparatus executes a prescribed process and transmits to the information processing apparatus a URL indicating the address of a web site where a specific image processing program compatible with the image processing apparatus can be downloaded. When receiving the URL, the information processing apparatus displays a reception screen on the display for receiving an instruction to access the address indicated by the URL.