NFC Controller Application Selection for Image Formers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses equipped with NFC functionality face challenges in starting multiple applications on communication terminals, as existing methods rely on specific implementation and record ordering in NDEF data, leading to issues where only the top application is automatically started, while others are not.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a selection unit to choose among multiple applications, a generation unit to create data for the selected application, and a writing unit to store this data in the short-distance wireless communication unit, enabling external devices to automatically start the desired application, even if the terminal does not support automatic startup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If NDEF data is structured with multiple application records in sequence, then the image forming apparatus can provide multiple application options, but communication terminals may only execute the top application regardless of user intent
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming apparatus pre-configures NDEF data with multiple application records in a predetermined sequence, allowing the terminal to automatically execute applications in order without requiring manual selection. This preliminary arrangement of application records resolves the contradiction by enabling both multiple application options and automatic execution control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the terminal reads NDEF data and executes applications based on the recorded sequence. The image forming apparatus can detect which application was executed and provide feedback, allowing for controlled application startup while maintaining multiple options.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming apparatus stores multiple application records in NDEF data, then it can support multiple applications, but the complexity of data structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The NDEF data structure is segmented into multiple independent application records, each with a specific format and purpose. This segmentation allows the system to support multiple applications while maintaining a clear, manageable data structure that terminals can process systematically.
Solution Approach 2:
The NDEF data structure is designed with universal compatibility in mind, using standardized record formats that can be interpreted by different communication terminals. This multi-functionality allows the same data structure to support various applications while avoiding excessive complexity.
3Ease of operation
If automatic application startup is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but compatibility with terminals that do not support the feature is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The NDEF data acts as an intermediary between the image forming apparatus and the communication terminal. It translates the automatic startup intent into a standardized data format that terminals can understand and process, regardless of whether they have native automatic startup support. This mediator enables compatibility while maintaining the desired functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of application startup control by encoding it within the NDEF data structure itself. Instead of relying on terminal-specific automatic startup features, the data carries instructions that can be interpreted by different terminals, adapting the startup behavior to various device capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus equipped with a plurality of service applications for providing respective services, in a state enabling a selected one of the service applications to be automatically started from a terminal apparatus. An image forming apparatus capable of performing printing includes a NFC unit. An NFC controller generates data to be read out by an external apparatus, according to selection of one of a plurality of applications. The NFC controller writes the generated data into the NFC unit.