Multi-Function Printer Job Execution Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Multi-Function Printers (MFPs) are cumbersome to operate when multiple jobs need to be executed sequentially, requiring users to wait for each job to complete before providing instructions for the next job, leading to inefficiencies and resource wastage, especially in multi-user environments.
Innovation Solution
A method and MFP system that allows for the execution of multiple jobs, such as scan, print, and facsimile, with predefined settings, where each job is executed continuously without requiring user input after completion of the previous job, using a processor and memory to store and manage job inputs and settings, enabling simultaneous execution of jobs with priority indexing and automatic notifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If users provide instructions for each job sequentially in existing MFPs, then each job can be completed with proper user control, but users have to wait for each job to complete before providing next instructions, leading to loss of time and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows users to pre-configure multiple jobs with their respective parameters in advance. The MFP stores these job configurations in memory and automatically executes them in sequence without requiring user intervention between jobs. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for users to wait and provide instructions after each job completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The MFP is designed to execute multiple jobs continuously without idle periods between them. Once a job is completed, the system automatically transitions to the next configured job, ensuring continuous operation of the device and eliminating waiting time where the MFP would otherwise be idle awaiting user input.
2Ease of operation
If existing MFPs require user input after each job completion, then users can control each job individually, but the operation becomes cumbersome especially when multiple users need to operate the MFP, increasing device complexity and reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP system performs self-service by automatically managing the execution sequence of multiple jobs without requiring continuous user intervention. The system autonomously transitions between jobs, monitors completion status, and initiates subsequent jobs based on pre-configured parameters, thereby simplifying the user experience while managing complex multi-job workflows.
3Productivity
If users wait for engaged users to complete tasks on MFPs in enterprise environments, then resource contention is managed, but resource utilization efficiency decreases and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP maintains continuous useful action by executing multiple jobs back-to-back without idle periods. This ensures that the device remains productive throughout operation, maximizing resource utilization in enterprise environments where multiple users share the MFP for various tasks.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method and a Multi-Function Printer (MFP) for executing multiple jobs. The MFP receives one or more inputs for executing a plurality of jobs. Also, one or more setting parameters for each job is received. The MFP stores the one or more inputs in a memory associated with the MFP and executes the plurality of jobs. The plurality of jobs is executed such that a job subsequent to a previously executed job, is executed continuously without receiving user inputs after completion of the previously executed job. Also, the one or more setting parameters are applied while executing to corresponding jobs.