Network Bridge for Remote Image Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image sharing technologies require downloading images to a computer for processing and sharing, which limits accessibility and efficiency, especially when high-resolution images are involved, and often necessitate specialized drivers and online applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows direct access and control of external image-acquiring devices, such as cameras and scanners, by a second computer via a network, without the need for downloading images onto a first computer, enabling remote high-resolution image sharing and control through a server computer system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If images are downloaded onto a computer for processing and sharing, then image sharing capability is achieved, but accessibility and efficiency are limited, especially for high-resolution images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the image data directly from the external device (camera, scanner) and transmits it to the second computer via network, bypassing the intermediate storage step on the first computer. This extraction approach eliminates the download-then-share workflow, allowing direct access to high-resolution images without requiring the first computer to store or process the images locally.
2Productivity
If images are downloaded onto a computer for sharing, then image sharing is enabled, but processing burden and time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing network connectivity and data transmission pathways before actual image sharing is needed. The first computer acts as a network bridge that has already configured the connection to the external device, enabling the second computer to directly access images without waiting for download and processing steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized drivers and online applications are implemented for image sharing, then remote access capability is achieved, but system complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal network-based approach where the first computer serves multiple functions: it acts as a network bridge, a protocol translator, and an access controller all in one. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for specialized drivers on the second computer, as the first computer handles all device-specific communication protocols and presents a standardized network interface to remote users.
4Manufacturing precision
If high-resolution images are shared through traditional download methods, then image quality is maintained, but network bandwidth and processing resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The first computer serves as an intermediary that manages high-resolution image transmission efficiently. It receives images from the external device at full resolution, then selectively transmits only the necessary portions to the second computer based on user needs. This mediator approach maintains image quality while reducing unnecessary network traffic by avoiding complete downloads of all images.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and system for performing image sharing. A first computer is coupled to an external device capable of acquiring data. A second computer is coupled to the first computer. A direct access to data acquired by the external device is provided to the second computer.