Aligning NFC and Bluetooth Communication Distances for Consistent Operability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of image processing apparatuses, such as multi-functional peripherals, face confusion due to differing communication distances based on the communication schemes used by terminals, specifically between near field communication and non-near field radio communication, leading to inconsistent operability.

Innovation Solution

The image processing apparatus incorporates both near field communication and non-near field radio communication portions, with an adjustment mechanism to align the communication distance of the non-near field radio communication portion with that of the near field communication portion, ensuring consistent positioning for both communication types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the image processing apparatus uses both near field communication and non-near field radio communication portions with different communication distances, then the apparatus can support multiple communication schemes, but users experience confusion and inconsistent operability due to the difference in communication distances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication scheme compatibilityVSAvoidoperability consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adjusts the communication distance parameter of the non-near field radio communication portion to match the near field communication distance. Specifically, the communication distance of the Bluetooth portion is reduced from several meters to several centimeters, aligning it with the NFC communication distance. This parameter adjustment allows both communication schemes to operate at the same physical distance, resolving the operability inconsistency while maintaining support for multiple communication protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates equipotential conditions for different communication schemes by equalizing their communication distances. By adjusting the non-near field communication distance to match the near field communication distance, both communication portions operate under the same spatial condition (same distance from the terminal), eliminating the operational disparity between NFC and Bluetooth communication modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

2Ease of operation

If the communication distance of the non-near field radio communication portion is reduced to match near field communication distance, then operability consistency is improved, but the communication coverage area is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperability consistencyVSAvoidcommunication coverage area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by adjusting only the communication distance parameter of the non-near field radio communication portion without completely eliminating its extended range capability. The communication distance is reduced to match NFC distance for optimal operability, but the system retains the ability to support longer distances when necessary, balancing operability consistency with communication coverage requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS10268426B2Image processing apparatus, method and non-transitory computer readable-medium for adjusting wireless communication distance equal to near field communication distance
Publication Date: 2019.04.23 KONICA MINOLTA INC
  • US10268426B2 patent drawing
  • US10268426B2 patent drawing
  • US10268426B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes a first communication portion configured to wirelessly communicate with a terminal and a second communication portion configured to carry out near field communication with a terminal. A communication distance between the second communication portion and the terminal is shorter than a communication distance between the first communication portion and the terminal. The image processing apparatus further includes an adjustment portion configured to adjust a communication-established distance over which the first communication portion establishes communication with the terminal so as to match with a specific position at which the second communication portion establishes communication with the terminal.