Linux Printing Option Setting via Text Input Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming systems, such as printers and multi-function peripherals, do not allow users to effectively set printing options using text input in a LINUX-based operating system, limiting user functionality and convenience.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for setting printing options using a LINUX-based system, which includes a user interface for text input, memory for storing setting information, and a processor for generating a command file, allowing users to input and store printing options like user authentication and paper size settings in XML format, and generating a PDL file for printing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a LINUX-based operating system is used in the image forming system, then system stability and security are improved, but user functionality and convenience for setting printing options are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem stabilityVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a printing option setting apparatus as an intermediary component between the LINUX-based image forming system and the user. This apparatus includes a user interface unit that receives text input from users, a memory unit that stores the input information, and a processor that generates command files. By adding this intermediary layer, the system maintains the stability of LINUX while enabling users to conveniently set printing options through text input, thus resolving the contradiction between system reliability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If text input interface is added for setting printing options, then user convenience is improved, but device complexity is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The printing option setting apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to minimize added complexity. The user interface unit not only receives text input but also processes and validates the input. The memory unit stores both the input information and the generated command files. The processor performs multiple functions including generating command files, managing printing operations, and interfacing with the image forming apparatus. By making this single apparatus perform multiple functions, the patent avoids the need for separate components for each function, thus improving user convenience while limiting the increase in overall system complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS8854671B2Method and apparatus for setting printing option
Publication Date: 2014.10.07 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US8854671B2 patent drawing
  • US8854671B2 patent drawing
  • US8854671B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of setting printing options at a host apparatus using a LINUX-based operation system (OS), the method including displaying at least one printing option providing text input for a user from among printing options provided by an image forming apparatus connected to the host apparatus; receiving setting information regarding printing options selected by a user from among the at least one printing option as text input; and storing the setting information with the corresponding printing options.