Print Control Apparatus Form Data Creation Interface

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing technologies for form combination printing using transparent ink are complex and difficult for users to operate, with unclear print format matching and limited flexible print control, especially in commercial printing applications.

Innovation Solution

A print control apparatus with a control unit that provides a form combination printing function, including a display unit for guiding the creation of form data and a storage unit for storing form files, assists users in completing operations by displaying instructions and ensuring accurate form data creation and execution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If form data creation operations are implemented in the printing system, then transparent ink decoration printing is enabled, but user operability deteriorates due to complex procedures that do not culminate in paper output

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransparent ink decoration printing capabilityVSAvoiduser operability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a form data management system that acts as an intermediary between the user and the printing system. The system provides a dedicated form data creation mode with a user-friendly interface that guides users through the process, displaying clear messages about operation status and requirements. This intermediary layer translates complex printing system operations into simple user actions, enabling transparent ink decoration printing without burdening users with system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If form data creation is integrated into normal printing operations, then printing system functionality is maintained, but user understanding deteriorates due to unclear distinction between normal printing and form data creation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting system integrationVSAvoiduser understanding
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the printing operations into distinct modes: normal printing mode and form data creation mode. Each mode has its own dedicated interface and operation flow. The form data creation mode is specifically designed with clear visual indicators and message displays that distinguish it from normal printing, helping users understand which operation they are performing while maintaining integration with the overall printing system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If form data creation instructions are provided only through print settings screen, then system simplicity is maintained, but information completeness deteriorates due to lack of confirmation about operation completion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidoperation completion confirmation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism that provides real-time information to users during form data creation. The system displays clear messages indicating when form data creation is in progress, when it is complete, and what additional operations are required (such as pressing OK on the print screen). This feedback loop maintains system simplicity while ensuring users have complete information about their operation status and next steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9244634B2Print control apparatus and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2016.01.26 CANON KK
  • US9244634B2 patent drawing
  • US9244634B2 patent drawing
  • US9244634B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A print settings screen for instructing creation of form data is displayed as a screen provided by a printer driver. Further, when a form data creation instruction has been received, a screen showing a message indicating that an instruction to complete an operation is required on a print screen provided by an application is displayed in order to execute the instructed creation of form data. Stored, as a form file, is form data created by a creation instruction given on the print settings screen, after the instruction to complete the operation was given on the print screen provided by the application.