Customizable MFP Setting Screen Layout via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional technologies for customizing device drivers in multifunction peripherals (MFPs) are limited in allowing users to customize screen contents, such as buttons or panels, and change their positions, failing to meet the increasing demand for personalized settings like sheet setting or image density.
Innovation Solution
A screen display method and apparatus that enables customization of setting screens by comparing stored default setting information with received setting information, generating customized screen setting information, and displaying it on a user interface, allowing users to customize the layout and content of setting screens based on their needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional device driver customization technology is used, then version information can be determined and basic customization is possible, but screen content customization (buttons, panels, positions) is not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The setting screen is segmented into multiple independent elements (buttons, panels, setting items) that can be individually customized. Each element can be independently configured, positioned, and displayed according to user preferences, enabling granular control over screen content without requiring complete screen redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The setting screen structure is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. Users can change the display positions, visibility, and configuration of various screen elements during operation. The screen layout adapts to user needs through draggable elements, resizable panels, and configurable display options that can be modified at any time.
2Ease of operation
If fixed screen layout is used, then device complexity is low, but user customization needs cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to perform screen customization themselves through intuitive drag-and-drop operations and configuration interfaces. Users can independently adjust button positions, panel sizes, and element visibility without requiring technical assistance or complex programming, making the customization process accessible to end users.
Solution Approach 2:
Default screen configurations and templates are provided in advance to guide users through the customization process. Pre-configured layouts and commonly used settings are available as starting points, reducing the effort required for customization while still allowing extensive user modifications when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive screen customization is enabled, then user needs can be satisfied, but information processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback during screen customization, showing users how their configuration changes affect the final display. The interface displays previews of modified screens, confirms configuration settings, and provides guidance on available options, helping users understand and manage their customization choices without feeling overwhelmed by complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A configuration management interface acts as an intermediary between user customization actions and the actual screen rendering. This intermediate layer processes user inputs, manages configuration data, validates settings, and coordinates the display of customized elements, simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling comprehensive customization capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus is connected to an information processing apparatus via a network. The image forming apparatus transmits setting information contained in a setting screen to the information processing apparatus and receives customized setting information generated by the information processing apparatus based on the setting information, whereby the setting screen is customized by the customized setting information.