Portable Terminal MFP Output Control via Segmented Instructions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-function peripherals (MFPs) cannot be instructed to perform faxing operations effectively, limiting their functionality in outputting content data.
Innovation Solution
A non-transitory computer-readable medium stores output instructions that control a portable terminal to identify and instruct MFPs to perform specific operations, such as printing or faxing, by storing device identification and operation information, allowing the terminal to transmit appropriate output instructions via a network interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MFPs are equipped with multiple functions (printing, faxing, scanning), then their versatility is improved, but the ability to receive and execute specific operation instructions from portable terminals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the operation instruction system into distinct components: device identification information, operation identification information, and instruction transmission protocols. This allows the portable terminal to selectively instruct specific operations (printing, faxing, scanning) on specific MFP functions, resolving the contradiction by enabling precise control over individual functions rather than treating the MFP as a monolithic device
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary instruction system that mediates between the portable terminal and the multi-function MFP. The terminal transmits structured instructions containing device and operation identification information, which the MFP interprets to execute the appropriate function. This intermediary layer enables seamless control of diverse MFP functions from a single terminal interface
2Extent of automation
If the portable terminal stores and manages device identification information for multiple processing devices, then its control capability is improved, but the complexity of device management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal instruction management system in the portable terminal that can identify and instruct multiple types of processing devices (MFPs, printers, scanners) using a standardized protocol. The terminal stores device identification information in a unified manner and transmits operation instructions that are device-type agnostic, allowing one system to manage diverse devices without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based device identification and operation specification, where devices are identified by unique identifiers and operations are specified by operation identification information. This parameterized approach allows the terminal to manage multiple devices systematically, changing only the relevant parameters (device ID, operation type) rather than restructuring the entire management system when adding new devices or functions
Data Source
AI summary
A portable terminal includes a user interface, a memory, a network interface, and a controller, and performs operations including: performing a first acquiring processing of acquiring the content data, which is identified by the data identification information, and the operation identification information; performing, a second acquiring processing of acquiring operation information representing operations, which is able to be performed by the first device; performing, a first determining processing of determining whether the output operation, which is identified by the operation identification information, is represented by the operation information, and transmitting, in the output instructing processing in a case where it is determined that the output operation is represented by the operation information, a first output instructing information to the first device via the network interface, wherein the first output instructing information is output instructing information for outputting the content data by the output operation.