Printer Exclusive Connection Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printers connected to operation terminals through wireless communication lack flexibility in managing exclusive connections, leading to inconvenience in shared or single-user usage scenarios, as they do not automatically disconnect or maintain connections based on user needs.
Innovation Solution
A printer with a processor and memory that performs connection control, operation control, and mode control processes, allowing for two modes: one where the exclusive connection is disconnected after printing, and another where it remains active, enabling users to select the optimal mode based on usage scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If exclusive connection is established with one operation terminal, then communication stability is improved, but accessibility for other users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connection management where the printer can switch between exclusive connection mode and shared connection mode based on operational needs. The connection state is not fixed but can be changed through mode switching, allowing the system to adapt between stability (exclusive) and accessibility (shared) as required by different usage scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connection is disconnected after printing completion, then resource availability for other users is improved, but reconnection time for the same user increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains the communication connection in a standby state after printing completion, preserving the connection pathway without fully disconnecting. This preliminary maintenance of connection state allows for rapid reconnection if the same user needs to print again, while still allowing other users to access the printer through shared mode if needed.
3Ease of operation
If connection is maintained after printing completion, then reconnection convenience is improved, but resource occupation for other users worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection parameter from binary (connected/disconnected) to a multi-state system including exclusive connection, shared connection, and standby states. This parameter expansion allows the system to maintain connection for convenience while simultaneously allowing other users to access the resource, resolving the contradiction between reconnection convenience and resource occupation.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure discloses a printer including a communication device, a processor, and a memory. The memory stores computer-executable instructions that cause the printer to perform a connection control process, an operation control process, and a mode control process. In the connection control process, an exclusive connection with a first operation terminal is established while excluding at least one second operation terminal. In the operation control process, printing is performed by controlling plurality of operation mechanisms after establishment of the exclusive connection. In the mode control process, a first switching mode or a second switching mode is selectively executed. The exclusive connection established with the first operation terminal is disconnected at a predetermined timing after completion of the printing in the first switching mode. The exclusive connection established with the first operation terminal is maintained without being disconnected at the predetermined timing in the second switching mode.