Portable Device MFP Cooperation System with Automatic Communication Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooperation systems between portable information devices and Multi Function Peripherals (MFPs) are cumbersome due to the need for users to manually select between LAN and Bluetooth communication modes and confirm data transmission, leading to complex operations.
Innovation Solution
A cooperation system where portable information devices and MFPs communicate through a predetermined distance using NFC and Bluetooth, allowing for linked processes to be specified and executed, with data transmission and reception managed through an image processing apparatus, enabling seamless data transfer and operation control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual selection between LAN and Bluetooth communication modes is implemented, then communication flexibility is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP automatically determines the appropriate communication mode (LAN or Bluetooth) based on the connection state with the portable terminal, eliminating the need for manual user selection. The system self-manages the communication path selection by detecting whether the terminal is connected via LAN and automatically switching to Bluetooth for data transmission when appropriate.
2Speed
If handover from NFC to wireless LAN is implemented, then communication path establishment is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary connection establishment through NFC when the portable terminal approaches the MFP. This initial NFC connection enables subsequent automatic switching to wireless LAN communication without requiring user intervention, as the handover process is pre-configured and automated based on the initial proximity detection.
Solution Approach 2:
NFC serves as an intermediary mechanism that facilitates the initial connection and triggers the handover to wireless LAN. The NFC connection acts as a mediator that enables the portable terminal and MFP to establish communication credentials and initiate the transition to the primary wireless LAN communication channel.
3Reliability
If manual confirmation of data transmission is required, then transmission reliability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP automatically provides feedback to the portable terminal regarding the execution status of received instructions and the state of data transmission. This automated feedback mechanism confirms whether data has been successfully transmitted and whether instructed operations have been completed, eliminating the need for manual verification while maintaining transmission reliability through systematic status reporting.
Data Source
AI summary
Portable information devices each include a portable-side communication unit to communicate with an image processing apparatus within a range of a predetermined distance, and a portable-side control unit. The portable-side control unit executes the steps of: specifying a linked process; displaying an operation screen for accepting a setting value corresponding to the linked process in a state in which the portable-side communication unit is unable to communicate with the image processing apparatus; accepting a setting value from a user; in response to the portable-side communication unit becoming able to communicate with the image processing apparatus, transmitting a setting request and receiving a response to the setting request from the image processing apparatus; if the response indicates to start the linked process, transmitting/receiving data in cooperation with the image processing apparatus; and if the response requests a setting value, displaying an operation screen for setting the requested setting value.