Output Device Selection via Processing Efficiency Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in determining the appropriate output device among multiple devices for processing based on output object information, including information on the object of interest to be output.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus and system that includes a receiving unit for output object information, a storage unit for output device information, and a determining unit to select the most efficient output device based on processing efficiency data stored in databases, such as output device management, mode, and usage information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple output devices are connected to handle various processing tasks, then the system's processing capability and versatility are improved, but it becomes difficult to determine the appropriate output device based on output object information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing capabilityVSAvoiddevice selection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by introducing specific evaluation criteria (processing efficiency parameters) to characterize and compare different output devices. The determining unit evaluates devices based on parameters such as processing speed, power consumption, and task compatibility, transforming the device selection problem into a parameter-based comparison that resolves the difficulty of selecting among multiple devices with diverse capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If output device information is stored in a database for reference, then device selection becomes more systematic, but the system complexity and information management burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice selection systematicityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The determining unit automatically queries the database for output device information and performs the selection process without requiring manual intervention. The system self-services by autonomously retrieving device characteristics, evaluating them against the output object requirements, and making the selection decision, thereby maintaining ease of operation while managing system complexity through automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Object-affected harmful factors

If device selection is based on comprehensive information including power consumption and CO2 discharge, then environmental impact is reduced, but the determination process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental impactVSAvoiddetermination process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing comprehensive device information including power consumption and CO2 discharge characteristics in the database before the actual selection process. This allows the determining unit to evaluate environmental impact factors alongside technical parameters in a unified framework, reducing environmental impact while managing determination complexity through advance information preparation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8953186B2Information processing apparatus, information processing system, and information processing method
Publication Date: 2015.02.10 RICOH CO LTD
  • US8953186B2 patent drawing
  • US8953186B2 patent drawing
  • US8953186B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes a receiving unit configured to receive output object information on an object to be output; a storage unit configured to store therein output device information on different types of output devices; and a determining unit configured to determine an output device based on the output object information and the output device information.