Optical Data Setting for Image Forming Apparatuses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data setting methods for image forming apparatuses, such as MFPs, require physical connections for setup and adjustment, which are time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially in production line environments where multiple devices need to be configured.
Innovation Solution
A data setting system utilizing an image forming apparatus with an image reading part for receiving external light signals and a communication terminal apparatus with a light irradiating part for sending corresponding light signals, enabling optical communication and setup of adjustment values without physical connection, using optical-communication receive and execution parts to perform data setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical connection is used for data setting between control unit and image forming apparatus, then reliable data transmission is achieved, but setup time and operator burden increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection system (physical cable connection between control unit and image forming apparatus) with an optical communication system. The image forming apparatus uses its image reading part (scanner) to receive optical signals containing setting data, eliminating the need for physical connection during setup. This substitution maintains data transmission reliability while dramatically reducing setup time and operator burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical signals to copy and transmit setting data from the control unit to the image forming apparatus. Instead of physically connecting devices, the setting information is converted into optical signals that can be received by the image reading part, effectively copying the data transmission process from electrical/physical domain to optical domain.
2Reliability
If physical connection is used for data setting, then stable communication is ensured, but operator burden and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual physical connection operations with automated optical signal transmission. The control unit automatically sends setting data as optical signals that the image forming apparatus receives through its image reading part, eliminating the need for operators to physically connect devices. This maintains communication stability while significantly reducing operator burden and labor intensity.
3Measurement precision
If traditional data setting method is used, then data can be transmitted accurately, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming setup process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the time-consuming mechanical connection process with rapid optical signal transmission. The image forming apparatus receives setting data through its existing image reading part using optical signals, maintaining data transmission accuracy while dramatically improving setup efficiency and overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the multi-functionality of the image forming apparatus by using its image reading part (scanner) for a secondary function: receiving optical signals for data setting. This existing component is utilized for both its primary function (scanning) and the new function (receiving setting data optically), improving productivity without adding dedicated hardware.
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 method allows for efficient and rapid setup of adjustment values and data for multiple MFPs, reducing operator burden and enabling simultaneous data setting across multiple devices without the need for physical connections, thus improving productivity and reducing setup time and effort.
Implementation Method 1
an optical-communication receive part that receives an external light signal by using an image reading part
Implementation Method 2
an optical-communication sending part that sends the light signal corresponding to the setup of data by using a light irradiating part
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a data setting system (1) that includes an image forming apparatus (100) having an image reading part (103) and a communication terminal apparatus (300) having a light irradiating part (200), wherein the image forming apparatus (100) has an optical-communication receive part that receives an external light signal by using the image reading part (103), and an optical-communication execution part that performs to a setup data corresponding to the light signal of being received; and the communication terminal apparatus (300) has an optical-communication sending part that sends the light signal corresponding to set the data by using the light irradiating part (200).