Image Forming Schedule Preview for Pre-Frame Function Availability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users setting a schedule time frame for an image forming apparatus are not informed about functions available before this time frame, leading to incomplete processing and delayed data transmission when other users utilize the apparatus.

Innovation Solution

The image forming apparatus sets a schedule time frame and presents available functions and their processing amounts before the scheduled time, estimating and updating processing completion times to manage user operations and ensure timely data processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the image forming apparatus allows other users to operate it before the schedule time frame, then the apparatus utilization rate is improved, but the scheduled job completion time is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapparatus utilization rateVSAvoidscheduled job completion time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by notifying users in advance about the scheduled time frame and available functions before it starts. The notification is displayed before the scheduled job execution begins, allowing users to make informed decisions about whether to use the apparatus during the pre-schedule period.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides feedback to users by displaying information about the scheduled time frame, available functions, and processing amounts before the schedule starts. This feedback mechanism enables users to understand the impact of their operations on scheduled jobs and adjust their behavior accordingly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of information

If the image forming apparatus presents available functions and processing amounts before the schedule time frame, then user awareness is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser awarenessVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system serves itself by automatically generating and displaying notifications about scheduled time frames and available functions. The notification generation and display processes are automated, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing the operational complexity despite the enhanced information provision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12535977B2Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and non-transitory computer readable medium storing program for presenting information before schedule time frame

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An image forming apparatus includes a processor configured to: set a schedule for the image forming apparatus by receiving a schedule time frame; and present a function available before the schedule time frame and a processing amount of the available function in response to a preset operation received before the schedule time frame.