NFC Terminal Displaying MFP Communication Schemes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems for multi-function peripherals (MFPs) lack user convenience in displaying available communication schemes for receiving print data, as users are not provided with clear information on the communication methods the MFP is capable of using.
Innovation Solution
A terminal apparatus and function executing apparatus that display and communicate the available communication schemes, such as direct print, E-mail print, and cloud print, by establishing NFC connections and sending information about the MFP's capabilities to the terminal apparatus, allowing users to select the appropriate scheme for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the MFP displays detailed information about all available communication schemes, then user convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a terminal apparatus as an intermediary that displays communication scheme information to the user. The MFP sends capability information to the terminal apparatus, which then presents it in a user-friendly format. This mediator approach allows the MFP to provide comprehensive information without directly implementing the complex display and interaction interface itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the information provision function (MFP sending capability data) from the information presentation function (terminal apparatus displaying schemes). This segmentation allows each device to focus on its strength: the MFP on providing accurate capability data and the terminal apparatus on user interaction and display.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the MFP provides comprehensive communication capability information to the terminal apparatus, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of information increases due to potential transmission errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the terminal apparatus receives capability information from the MFP, processes it, and can request clarification or additional information if needed. The MFP can also verify successful transmission and resend information if transmission errors occur, ensuring accurate adaptability information is conveyed.
Solution Approach 2:
The MFP prepares and sends its capability information to the terminal apparatus in advance, before the user needs to select a communication scheme. This preliminary action ensures that all necessary information is available when needed, reducing the risk of information loss during critical decision-making moments.
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
Enhances user convenience by clearly displaying and enabling the use of suitable communication schemes, facilitating efficient data transmission between the MFP and terminal devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first NFC interface for establishing a connection with a terminal apparatus by using a near-field communication (NFC) protocol
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal apparatus (50) may receive first information relating to a first function executing apparatus (10A) from the first function executing apparatus (10A). The first function executing apparatus (10A) may be configured to execute a print function. The terminal apparatus (50) may cause a display mechanism (54) of the terminal apparatus (50) to display a first image indicating M1 items of communication schemes by using the first information. Each of the M1 items of communication schemes may be a communication scheme available for the first function executing apparatus (10A) to receive print data.