Printer Cloud Storage Bypass for Full HDD
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printing apparatuses often face storage capacity issues, preventing the printing of desired images when the internal HDD is full, leading to a lack of space for new print data.
Innovation Solution
The printing apparatus communicates with terminal devices via a local area network and external devices via the Internet, allowing it to receive and print image data without storing it locally when necessary, by determining if a print instruction requires transmitting image data to an external device for storage and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If print data is stored in the internal HDD of the printing apparatus, then printing can be performed using stored data, but the internal HDD capacity is limited and cannot store new print data when full
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the storage dimension from local internal HDD to remote cloud storage via network connection. When internal storage is full, the system transitions to storing print data on external servers accessible through the network, effectively adding a new spatial dimension for data storage without expanding physical hardware capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The network interface and controller act as intermediaries between the printing apparatus and external storage resources. The controller manages the complex interaction of receiving, transmitting, and retrieving print data through the network, enabling the printer to access remote storage capacity while maintaining its core printing function.
2Quantity of substance
If print data is transmitted to and stored on an external server, then internal storage capacity constraints are eliminated, but network communication and data transmission are required
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it can store print data locally in the internal HDD, transmit data to external servers via the network, and retrieve data from both sources. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different storage scenarios without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing apparatus autonomously determines whether to store data locally or transmit to external storage based on its internal storage status. The controller automatically manages the data flow, selecting the appropriate storage path without requiring manual intervention, thereby simplifying the user experience despite the underlying system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the printing apparatus uses only internal HDD storage, then the system is simple and self-contained, but printing cannot be performed when internal storage is full
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is made dynamic by allowing the printing apparatus to switch between local and remote storage modes based on real-time conditions. The controller continuously monitors internal HDD capacity and dynamically adjusts the storage strategy, transitioning from local-only storage to a flexible hybrid approach that maintains printing capability regardless of internal storage status.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus is configured to communicate with a terminal device via a local area network and an external device via the internet. The printing apparatus includes an input interface, a print device, and a controller. The controller is configured to perform: receiving specific image data representing the specific image from the terminal device; determining whether the input of the print instruction is required for printing the specific image; when it is determined that the input of the print instruction is required, transmitting the specific image data to the external device, receiving the print instruction via the input interface, acquiring the specific image data from the external device in response to the receipt of the print instruction, and printing the specific image with the print device.