IP Network Image Communication Apparatus CNG Signal Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image communication apparatuses connected to IP networks lack the capability to automatically detect a CNG signal and switch to FAX reception in answerphone connection and FAX/TEL-switching modes, and they also fail to switch to FAX reception when a DTMF signal is detected, limiting their functionality in T.30 in-band FAX communication and voice communication.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus includes a facsimile controller and a telephone controller connected via the IP network, with a connection control unit that ensures signals from the IP network are supplied to both controllers, enabling detection of CNG and DTMF signals for automatic switching to FAX reception in various modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the apparatus is configured to support multiple reception modes (automatic reception, answerphone connection, FAX/TEL-switching, manual reception) on IP network, then the adaptability and versatility of the apparatus is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereception mode supportVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection control unit is designed to provide universal signal distribution capability that serves multiple reception modes (automatic reception, answerphone connection, FAX/TEL-switching, manual reception) through a single unified architecture. This multi-functional design allows the same connection control unit to handle different reception scenarios without requiring separate control mechanisms for each mode, thereby improving adaptability while managing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control system is segmented into distinct functional units: a connection control unit responsible for signal routing and distribution, and separate detection units for CNG and DTMF signals. This segmentation allows each unit to specialize in specific tasks, making the overall complex system more manageable and maintainable while supporting multiple reception modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If the connection control unit supplies signals to both facsimile controller and telephone controller simultaneously, then the measurement precision of CNG signal detection is improved, but the loss of information increases due to signal distribution

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCNG signal detection accuracyVSAvoidsignal distribution loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The connection control unit acts as an intermediary between the IP network signal source and the facsimile/telephone controllers. It receives the incoming signal and intelligently distributes it to the appropriate controller based on the current reception mode and signal type detection, thereby maintaining signal integrity and preventing information loss while enabling precise CNG signal detection by the facsimile controller.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where the connection control unit monitors the signals being distributed and adjusts the signal routing based on detection results from CNG and DTMF detection. This feedback loop ensures that signal distribution does not result in information loss by dynamically optimizing the signal path based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If the apparatus implements automatic switching to FAX reception upon CNG signal detection, then the productivity of FAX reception is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to automatic mode changes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFAX reception speedVSAvoidmanual control flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The reception mode of the apparatus is made dynamic rather than static. The connection control unit enables automatic switching between different reception modes (voice, FAX) based on real-time signal detection results. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to automatically transition to FAX reception when a CNG signal is detected, improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation through intelligent automation that responds to actual communication conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10051137B2Image communication apparatus capable of performing facsimile communication via IP network, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2018.08.14 CANON KK
  • US10051137B2 patent drawing
  • US10051137B2 patent drawing
  • US10051137B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a technique that enables an image communication apparatus capable of performing voice communication and T.30 in-band FAX communication over the IP network to positively detect a CNG signal and achieve switching to FAX reception in the answerphone connection mode and the FAX/TEL-switching mode. The communication apparatus includes a MODEM that controls facsimile communication and a SLIC that controls a telephone. A selector includes switches for connecting the IP network and the MODEM, and switches for connecting the IP network and the SLIC. A CPU controls the switches of the selector such that signals from the IP network are supplied to both of the MODEM and the SLIC.