Multifunction Device Custom Region Scan Preview

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multifunction devices face limitations in performance due to memory constraints and reliance on attached personal computers, hindering their utility and mobility in scanning and document processing tasks.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a user interface on the multifunction device for selecting and manipulating image regions, with a TWAIN driver and necessary instructions resident within the device, allowing for standalone operation without relying on a personal computer, enabling features like preview images, resizable selection boxes, zooming, and erasing functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multifunction devices are directly connected to personal computers for scanning and document processing, then performance can be enhanced through computer resources, but the utility and mobility of the devices are significantly hampered

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveperformanceVSAvoidmobility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The multifunction device is equipped with a built-in user interface and resident TWAIN driver, enabling it to perform scanning and document processing operations independently without requiring connection to an external personal computer. The device serves itself by providing all necessary control functions directly on the device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If multifunction devices rely on attached personal computers for scanning operations, then scanning performance can be improved, but the necessity of relying on personal computer significantly hampers the utility of the device

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescanning performanceVSAvoidutility

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The multifunction device integrates multiple functions including scanning, copying, and printing in a single unit with a built-in user interface. The device can perform various document processing tasks independently, making it adaptable to different usage scenarios without requiring external computer support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Use of energy by moving object

If the TWAIN driver and control instructions are located on the personal computer, then the multifunction device can utilize computer resources, but the device cannot operate standalone

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidstandalone operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The control software is segmented into two parts: the TWAIN driver is resident in the multifunction device for local control, while optional enhancement software can be installed on the personal computer if needed. This segmentation allows the device to operate independently while still providing the option to utilize computer resources when required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS7864347B2Systems and methods that provide custom region scan with preview image on a multifunction device

Publication Date: 2011.01.04 XEROX CORP

AI summary

A multifunction device having a user interface that enables the selection of a particular region of a document image after an initial scan of a document that creates a preview (thumbnail) image of the document. Using a display on the multifunction device, a desired region of the image may be selected for to manipulating and final scanning. A selection box is displayed over the preview image to show the user the region that will be scanned. The user can then select an area of the image for further manipulation through the user interface by moving and/or resizing the selection box, zooming in/out, or erasing a region within the selection box.