Print Plan Option Display With Sheet Period Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems do not provide users with easy options to select the appropriate number of sheets for printing in a printer, especially in cloud-based services, neglecting user preferences and usage patterns.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that displays multiple options for the number of sheets permitted for printing, along with associated periods, allowing users to easily select and purchase pre-paid plans based on their usage patterns and preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple options for number of sheets are provided without associated period information, then users have more choices for printing plans, but users cannot easily determine which option is appropriate for their needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a time dimension to the sheet options by displaying both the number of sheets and the corresponding usage period together. This transforms the selection from a single-dimension choice (number of sheets only) to a two-dimension choice (sheets and time), enabling users to make more informed decisions based on their printing needs over different time periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and displays the usage period information for each sheet option before the user makes a selection. By providing this predictive information in advance, users can immediately understand how long their printed materials will last with each option, eliminating the need for further calculation or estimation after selection.
2Extent of automation
If cloud-based printing service is implemented, then printing capacity can be managed remotely, but users lack visibility and control over their printing usage and planning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system displays predicted usage periods based on the selected number of sheets. This provides users with immediate information about how their printing capacity will be consumed over time, enabling them to make informed decisions and adjust their selections accordingly, thus maintaining control in the cloud-based environment.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes at least one memory that stores a program, and at least one processor that executes the program to perform control to display a plurality of options indicating different numbers of sheets for adding a number of sheets permitted to be used for printing in a printer and control to, in association with a single option among the plurality of options, display information regarding a period corresponding to a number of sheets indicated in the single option.