Network-Based Image Forming System Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming systems require dedicated line connections to define the configuration and arrangement of apparatuses, making it difficult to flexibly change or add new apparatuses, and they fail if an apparatus is not powered on, limiting user adaptability and system functionality.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system that uses network connections to define system configuration based on identification information and setting information for apparatuses, allowing flexible reconfiguration and addition of new apparatuses without dedicated lines, and ensuring operation even if some apparatuses are not powered on initially.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated line connections are used to define apparatus configuration and arrangement, then system stability and reliability are improved, but system flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical dedicated line connection system with a network-based communication system. Apparatuses are connected via network cables instead of dedicated control lines, allowing configuration changes through software rather than physical reconnection. This substitution maintains reliable communication while enabling flexible reconfiguration of apparatus arrangements and system topology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configuration capabilities where the image forming system can automatically detect and adapt to changes in apparatus connectivity. The system dynamically updates apparatus arrangement information based on network communication status, allowing flexible reconfiguration without requiring physical reconnection of dedicated lines, thus resolving the contradiction between stability and flexibility.
2Reliability
If dedicated line connections are used to define apparatus arrangement, then communication reliability between apparatuses is improved, but ease of operation and system reconfiguration deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical dedicated line connections with network-based communication. Apparatuses exchange configuration and status information through standard network protocols, eliminating the need for physical reconnection when reconfiguring the system. This maintains communication reliability through error-checked network transmission while dramatically improving reconfiguration ease through software-based management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where apparatuses automatically report their status and configuration to the central controller via the network. The system continuously monitors communication status and dynamically adjusts apparatus arrangements based on real-time feedback, ensuring reliable operation while enabling easy reconfiguration without manual intervention in physical connections.
3Reliability
If all apparatuses must be powered on for system operation, then system reliability is improved, but system availability and usability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables partial system operation where only the necessary subset of apparatuses needs to be powered on for a given task. The control apparatus identifies which apparatuses are required for specific print jobs and routes tasks accordingly, allowing the system to operate reliably with partial apparatus availability rather than requiring all apparatuses to be powered on simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic apparatus registration and detection mechanisms. The system automatically detects which apparatuses are currently powered on and available, dynamically adjusts the apparatus arrangement information, and routes tasks to available apparatuses. This dynamic adaptation maintains system reliability for available functions while improving overall system availability and usability.
Data Source
AI summary
A configuration of an image forming system that includes an image forming apparatus and at least one of a paper feed apparatus and a post-process apparatus is defined based on system configuration information including a combination of identification information for the apparatuses and setting information for the order of arrangement of the apparatuses corresponding to the identification information without using a dedicated line connection.