Parallel Scan Job Control in Multi-Unit Image Scanners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image scanning apparatuses with multiple scan units cannot perform scan jobs in parallel, requiring users to wait for a current job to complete before initiating a new one, limiting efficiency and user convenience.
Innovation Solution
An image scanning apparatus and method that allow individual control of multiple scan units to perform scan jobs in parallel by determining if a new job is a multi-scan job and using a controller to manage and execute these jobs simultaneously, including scan jobs, fax transmission jobs, and copy jobs using both auto document feeders and flatbed scanners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scan units are provided in the image scanning apparatus, then the scanning capability and versatility are improved, but the ability to perform parallel scan jobs is not achieved and users must wait for current jobs to complete
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the control of scan units by introducing independent job queues for each scan unit. Each scan unit can be individually assigned and controlled through separate job queues, allowing parallel execution of multiple scan jobs across different scan units. This segmentation enables the apparatus to utilize all scan units simultaneously for different jobs, resolving the contradiction between having multiple scan units and being able to use them in parallel.
2Device complexity
If the apparatus processes one scan job at a time sequentially, then the control system remains simple, but the productivity and user efficiency are reduced due to waiting time
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preliminary action by pre-defining multiple job queues (first job queue, second job queue, etc.) corresponding to different scan units before actual scan jobs are executed. When scan jobs are received, they are automatically assigned to appropriate job queues in advance, enabling parallel processing without requiring complex real-time scheduling decisions. This preliminary structuring of job queues allows the system to handle multiple jobs simultaneously while keeping the control logic relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
Image scanning apparatus and method of receiving a new scan job, determining whether the new scan job is a multi-scan job, and when the new scan job is a multi-scan job, individually performing the multi-scan job using the plurality of scan units. Accordingly, in the process of performing a scan job, a user can perform a new scan job without waiting.