Integrated Numeric Keypad and IC Reader for Image Formers
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses with touch panel operating portions, the arrangement of an IC card reader adjacent to the numeric keypad device increases the distance between the touch panel and the numeric keypad, making it difficult for users to input numerical values effectively, particularly for those unaccustomed to touch panels or preferring hardware keypads.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus includes a separate numeric keypad device with hardware keys positioned adjacent to the touch panel operating portion and an IC card reader, both integrated by a holding member to optimize their placement and reduce operational distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the IC card reader is arranged adjacent to the right side of the operating portion, then the authentication function is improved, but the distance between the operating portion and the numeric keypad device is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the IC card reader and numeric keypad device into a single integrated unit that is disposed adjacent to the operating portion. This merging allows both the authentication function (IC card reader) and the input function (numeric keypad) to be available within a compact space, eliminating the need for the numeric keypad to be positioned far to the right and thus maintaining good operability for users.
2Ease of operation
If the numeric keypad device is arranged adjacent to the right side of the operating portion, then the input operability is improved, but the IC card reader must be arranged on a further right side
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the IC card reader and numeric keypad device into a single unit positioned adjacent to the operating portion, the patent simplifies the overall device arrangement. This eliminates the complex layout where the numeric keypad is close to the operating portion while the IC card reader is pushed further to the right, creating a cleaner, more manageable configuration.
3Device complexity
If a touch panel type operating portion is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation for unaccustomed users is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the input interface into two distinct components: a touch panel operating portion for display and control, and a separate numeric keypad device with physical hardware keys for input. This segmentation allows the device to maintain the simplicity of a touch panel while providing a familiar hardware keypad interface for users who are unaccustomed to touch operation, thus improving ease of operation without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an operating portion which is capable of displaying a software key and which is not provided with a hardware key; an input device which is a separate member from the operating portion, which is provided adjacent to a right side of the operating portion when the image forming apparatus is seen from a position opposing the operating portion, and which is provided with a hardware key; an IC card reader which is a separate member from the operating portion and the input device, which is provided adjacent to a right side of the input device when the image forming apparatus is seen from a position opposing the input device, and which is configured to receive user information from an IC card; and a holding member configured to integrally hold the input device and the IC reader.