Image Processing Apparatus Print Job Selection Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

In image processing apparatuses, users face inconvenience when not all print data is printed due to settings limiting the number of jobs or prohibiting one-sided printing, leading to the 'print immediate performance icon' being preferentially displayed, which does not allow users to select or change print settings effectively for unprinted data.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus authenticates users, stores print jobs with identification information, and displays a list of print jobs on the operation device screen after authentication, prioritizing the 'SELECT AND PRINT' button over the 'PRINT EVERYTHING' button if the number of print jobs exceeds the allowed limit or if print settings restrict printing, allowing users to select and change print settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If the print immediate performance icon is preferentially displayed to enable quick printing of stored print data, then printing speed is improved, but user convenience deteriorates when not all print data can be printed due to settings limitations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting speedVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The display order of icons on the operation screen is dynamically adjusted based on the actual printable status of stored print data. When print restrictions are detected (such as job number limits or one-sided printing prohibitions), the system automatically reorders icons to prioritize those that can actually be printed, while still maintaining quick access to the print function. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by ensuring both speed and user convenience are maintained under varying operational conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If settings are applied to limit the number of jobs or prohibit one-sided printing to prevent apparatus occupation or reduce costs, then apparatus reliability is improved, but completeness of printing deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus reliabilityVSAvoidprinting completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that detect whether stored print data can be fully printed according to current settings. When restrictions are identified (such as maximum job limits or one-sided printing prohibitions), the system provides feedback to the user through the operation screen, displaying information about which print data can and cannot be printed. This feedback loop allows users to understand the limitations and make informed decisions about their printing needs, while the system maintains reliable operation within the defined constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If the number of displayable icons on the operation screen is limited to maintain simple interface, then device complexity is reduced, but information completeness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface complexityVSAvoidinformation completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The operation screen interface is segmented into multiple functional areas: a primary display area showing prioritized icons for quick printing, and a secondary information area providing detailed status information about printable and non-printable data. This segmentation allows the main interface to remain simple and uncluttered while still providing complete information about print job status, restrictions, and options. Users can access detailed information when needed without overwhelming the primary interface, thus maintaining simplicity while preserving information completeness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11455127B2Image processing apparatus, control method for image processing apparatus, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2022.09.27 CANON KK
  • US11455127B2 patent drawing
  • US11455127B2 patent drawing
  • US11455127B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In a case where a print job not performed according to designation of a first object for performing at least one print job without an authenticated user selecting the at least one print job is included in print jobs stored in association with identification information of the authenticated user, an image processing apparatus displays a second object for displaying a list of the print jobs stored in association with the identification information of the authenticated user in preference to the first object on a screen displayed on an operation device after the authentication.