NFC Image Job Setup via Wireless Tagging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently setting up image jobs due to the need for manual input of extensive information through limited user interfaces, which is time-consuming and inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a near field communication (NFC) function allows an image forming apparatus to tag a user device, receive information via NFC, and analyze setting information to automatically update application settings, enabling seamless execution of image jobs without manual input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual input method is used through limited user interface, then user can input setting information, but the process becomes time-consuming and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of setting image jobVSAvoidtime for manual input
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual input method through limited user interface with an electromagnetic NFC (Near Field Communication) system. The NFC module wirelessly transmits setting information from the terminal device to the image forming apparatus, eliminating the need for manual keyboard input and significantly reducing the time and effort required for configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a terminal device (such as a smartphone or computer) as an intermediary between the user and the image forming apparatus. The terminal device's NFC module serves as a mediator to automatically transmit setting information to the apparatus, replacing direct manual input and streamlining the configuration process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If extensive information is input manually through limited interface, then complete settings can be achieved, but the operation becomes complex and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of settingsVSAvoidconvenience of configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the complex setting information input task from the image forming apparatus itself and transfers it to the terminal device. The NFC module in the terminal device captures and transmits the setting information, relieving the image forming apparatus of the burden of providing a complex input interface while ensuring complete settings are achieved.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes the mechanical limited user interface with an NFC-based wireless communication system. This allows extensive setting information to be transmitted automatically without requiring the user to navigate through multiple interface screens or perform complex manual input operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Extent of automation

If NFC technology is integrated, then automatic setting update is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic setting updateVSAvoidcomplexity of NFC integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent leverages the universality of NFC technology, which is already widely integrated into modern terminal devices such as smartphones and computers. By utilizing the existing NFC functionality in these common devices, the system achieves automatic setting update capability without requiring specialized or complex custom hardware in the image forming apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses the terminal device as an intermediary that handles the NFC communication complexity. The terminal device's NFC module performs the tagging, information reception, and transmission functions, thereby isolating the complexity from the image forming apparatus and enabling automatic setting updates with minimal added complexity to the core system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution streamlines the image job setup process by leveraging NFC technology to automatically update settings, reducing user input and enhancing convenience and efficiency in configuring image forming tasks.

Implementation Method 1

Near field communication (NFC) is a contactless short-range wireless communication standard between electronic devices within a short distance of 10 cm with low power consumption by using a frequency of 13.56 MHz

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear field communication (NFC): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10033903B2Image forming apparatus supporting near field communication (NFC) function and method of setting an image job using NFC device
Publication Date: 2018.07.24 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US10033903B2 patent drawing
  • US10033903B2 patent drawing
  • US10033903B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image forming apparatus supporting a near field communication (NFC) function and a method of performing setting an image job by using an NFC device. The method includes tagging an NFC device to receive setting information stored in the NFC device and performing an image job based on the received setting information.