Printer Extension Interface for Unified Print Settings and Status
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Solution Overview
Problem
The standard class driver in printers requires users to perform additional operations to access extended functions provided by extension applications, and important printer status information may not be visible at desired times, impairing convenience.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with an extension application that includes an acquisition unit to gather printer information, a determination unit to define display items on the print setting screen, and a notification unit to inform the operating system of these items, thereby enhancing user interaction and visibility of critical printer status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users explicitly operate to display the extension application screen, then extended functions can be accessed, but the number of operations increases and convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the extension application screen with the standard print setting screen by overlaying the extension screen on top of the standard screen. This allows users to access extended functions without leaving the print setting context, reducing the number of operations required while maintaining access to enhanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension application acts as an intermediary layer between the user and the printer capabilities. It intercepts user inputs on the standard print setting screen and processes them through additional extended functions, allowing seamless integration without requiring separate application navigation.
2Loss of information
If printer status information is displayed only in the extension application screen, then comprehensive information is provided, but visibility at desired timing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the display of printer status information from both the standard print setting screen and the extension application screen into a single unified view. Information is merged and presented simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive visibility without requiring users to switch between applications or wait for specific timing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the extension application operates independently, then extended functions are available, but integration with the standard print setting screen is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the extension application and standard print setting screen into a single integrated interface. The extension screen is overlaid on the standard screen, allowing both systems to operate together as one unified application, reducing perceived complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores a program executable by a computer of an information processing apparatus and configured to extend a function in association with print data generation software available on a plurality of different printers, the program causing the computer to execute processing including acquiring information from a printer among the plurality of printers; determining information to be displayed on a print setting screen of an operating system of the information processing apparatus, based on the information acquired from the printer; and notifying the operating system of the information processing apparatus of screen definition information defining the information to be displayed on the print setting screen.