PJL Data Translation for Image Forming Apparatus Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Updating image forming apparatuses in an image forming system increases the burden of reconstructing the system, as existing technologies require new PJL data to be registered and processed, leading to inefficiencies and increased administrative efforts.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a data interface, non-volatile memory, and controller that converts non-target PJL data into target PJL data using filter data stored in the memory, allowing the system to process new PJL data without requiring extensive system reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming apparatus is updated to address changes in provided values and functions, then the performance and functions of the image forming apparatus are improved, but the burden required for reconstructing the image forming system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces PJL translation data as an intermediary layer between the information processing device and the image forming apparatus. This translation data enables automatic conversion of PJL commands, allowing the system to adapt to apparatus updates without requiring manual reconstruction. The intermediary handles the complexity of adaptation, isolating the core system from reconstruction burdens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in PJL commands to achieve adaptability. By modifying PJL parameter values and structures through translation data, the system can accommodate different apparatus configurations and updates. This allows performance improvement through parameter adjustment rather than system reconstruction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new PJL data is sent from a PC that is not registered in the PJL dictionary, then the image forming apparatus can process new functions, but the burden of registering and managing new PJL data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic PJL translation. When new PJL data is received, the system automatically retrieves corresponding translation data and performs conversion without requiring manual registration or administrative intervention. The image forming apparatus serves itself by autonomously handling new PJL commands through the translation mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing PJL translation data in the system. Before new PJL data needs to be processed, the corresponding translation data is already available, enabling immediate automatic conversion without requiring real-time registration or manual configuration when new functions are introduced.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the PJL dictionary is updated to include new PJL data, then the image forming apparatus can perform new processes, but the system requires extensive reconstruction and registration efforts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PJL data management into two independent parts: the original PJL dictionary and the translation data. This segmentation allows the translation data to be updated and added separately without requiring reconstruction of the entire PJL dictionary system. New processes can be added by simply adding new translation data entries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-preparing translation data for new PJL commands. Instead of reconstructing the entire dictionary when new processes are needed, the corresponding translation data is prepared in advance and integrated, significantly reducing the time and effort required for system updates.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a controller configured to obtain PJL data via a data interface, refer to filter data stored in a non-volatile memory, the filter data associating non-target PJL data with target data, the non-target PJL data being PJL data not intended for causing the image forming apparatus to a particular process, the target PJL data being PJL data intended for causing the image forming apparatus to perform the particular process, and when the obtained PJL data is the non-target PJL data associated with the target PJL data in the filter data stored in the non-volatile memory, convert the obtained PJL data into the target PJL data associated with the non-target PJL data in the filter data stored in the non-volatile memory.