Multi-Network Communication Control for External Device Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multifunction peripherals connected to multiple networks face challenges in identifying a network for data communication without receiving network information from an external device, necessitating a method to select a communication destination without external assistance.
Innovation Solution
A communication control device that identifies a network for communication with an external device based on user information and network association, enabling data communication without requiring network information from the external device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the image processing apparatus receives network information from an external device, then the external device can be provided with a unit for transmitting network information, but the system complexity increases and the external device requires additional functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing apparatus autonomously acquires network information from the network environment without requiring the external device to provide it. The apparatus detects available networks and selects an appropriate network independently, making the external device simpler while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The network environment itself acts as an intermediary source of network information. Instead of requiring direct communication between the external device and the image processing apparatus for network information exchange, the apparatus obtains network information from the network environment directly.
2Measurement precision
If the external device is provided with a unit for transmitting network information, then network identification can be achieved, but the data communication process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing apparatus performs preliminary network detection and identification before establishing communication with the external device. By pre-acquiring network information from the network environment, the apparatus eliminates the need for time-consuming network information exchange during the communication setup phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus independently performs network identification without requiring assistance or information transmission from the external device, thereby reducing the time required for communication setup while maintaining accurate network identification.
3Adaptability or versatility
If network information is received from an external device, then the external device must have transmission capability, but this increases the requirements and complexity of the external device
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing apparatus obtains network information autonomously from the network environment, eliminating the need for the external device to have network information transmission capabilities. This maintains the apparatus's communication versatility while reducing the external device's functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing apparatus is designed to operate with multiple types of external devices regardless of their network information transmission capabilities. By universally acquiring network information from the network environment, the apparatus can work with simple external devices that lack complex transmission functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A communication control device includes a processor configured to: when the communication control device recognizes an external device via one network under an environment including a plurality of networks, identify the one network among the plurality of networks as a network used for communication between the communication control device and the external device; and enable data communication with the external device based on information on a user that performs the data communication with the external device and the one network identified.