Image Processing Apparatus Print Job Notification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of image processing apparatuses face issues where they are not notified about print data that cannot be printed due to settings limiting the number of jobs or prohibiting one-sided printing, leading to unexpected incomplete printing when using the shortcut function.

Innovation Solution

The image processing apparatus includes processors that authenticate users, store print jobs with identification information, and notify users of unprintable jobs before performing any print operations, ensuring transparency on what data will not be printed when the 'PRINT EVERYTHING' button is pressed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If the shortcut function is used to immediately perform printing of stored print data, then printing speed is improved, but completeness of printing deteriorates because some print data cannot be printed due to system settings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting speedVSAvoidcompleteness of printing
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis of print data before executing the shortcut printing function. It checks each stored print job against system settings (such as one-sided printing restrictions and job number limits) and identifies which jobs cannot be printed. This preliminary action allows the system to inform users in advance about incomplete printing, enabling them to make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the shortcut function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Loss of energy

If system settings limit the number of jobs or prohibit one-sided printing to reduce costs, then resource consumption is reduced, but user convenience deteriorates because users cannot recognize unprintable jobs before instructing printing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource consumptionVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback to users about the status of their print jobs before executing the shortcut printing function. It analyzes each stored print job and generates information about which jobs can and cannot be printed based on current system settings. This feedback mechanism allows users to understand the impact of system restrictions on their specific print data, enabling them to adjust settings or select alternative printing methods if needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11249698B2Image processing apparatus, control method for image processing apparatus, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2022.02.15 CANON KK
  • US11249698B2 patent drawing
  • US11249698B2 patent drawing
  • US11249698B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In a case where a print job that is not performed according to designation of an object is included in print jobs stored in association with identification information of an authenticated user, an image processing apparatus gives notification that the print job that is not performed according to the designation of the object is included, to the authenticated user.