Post-Processing Apparatus Re-Output Command Reception

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing image forming systems face operability challenges when users need to re-output a print job, as they must physically move between the image forming apparatus and the post-processing apparatus to provide commands, which decreases efficiency.

Innovation Solution

An image forming system that includes an image forming apparatus and a post-processing apparatus, where the post-processing apparatus allows users to receive and execute re-output commands directly through its second operation panel, eliminating the need for users to move between devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the image forming apparatus and post-processing apparatus are operated separately with individual operation panels, then each device can be controlled independently, but the user must physically move between devices to provide re-output commands, reducing operability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperability for re-output commandVSAvoidsystem configuration with multiple operation panels

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The post-processing apparatus is equipped with a second reception section that enables it to receive re-output commands directly, making it a multi-functional device that can both process printouts and accept re-output commands, eliminating the need for users to return to the image forming apparatus

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control sections of both the image forming apparatus and post-processing apparatus communicate with each other to share job information and coordinate operations, acting as intermediaries that enable seamless re-output functionality across the distributed system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11687303B2Image forming system with post-processing section that receives commands

Publication Date: 2023.06.27 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An image forming system includes: an image forming apparatus that includes an image forming section that forms an image on a recording material in accordance with a print job and a first reception section that receives a command about output of the print job; and a post-processing apparatus that includes a post-processing section that performs post-processing on the recording material transported from the image forming apparatus in accordance with the print job and a second reception section that receives a command about the post-processing and that receives a command about re-output of the print job in a case where the print job is to be possibly re-output.