Printer Ink Estimation with Dual Calculation Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses struggle to accurately display the printable quantity of sheets based on user-specific usage patterns, often leading to discrepancies between calculated and actual ink consumption, especially when switching between document and picture printing styles, causing confusion and potential ink shortages or wastage.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with a recorder, colorant container, display, input interface, memory, and controller that calculates and displays both user-specific and standard printable quantities, allowing users to select between these options, thereby providing a more accurate representation of remaining ink levels based on past usage and ISO standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the image forming apparatus calculates printable quantity based on average usage from past printing operations, then the printable quantity estimate is accurate for similar usage patterns, but it becomes inaccurate when usage patterns change (e.g., switching from document to picture printing)
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two printable quantity calculation methods based on user selection or usage pattern detection. It maintains both the average-based calculation (for stability and accuracy in consistent usage) and the ISO standard calculation (for adaptability to different printing styles), allowing the system to adapt to changing usage patterns while preserving the benefits of historical data when applicable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the calculation parameters for printable quantity estimation based on the selected method. When using average-based calculation, it incorporates historical consumption data and average image area ratios. When using ISO standard calculation, it applies standardized image patterns and consumption rates. This parameter flexibility allows the system to optimize accuracy for different usage scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming apparatus uses ISO standard printable quantity calculation, then it provides a unified standard for comparison, but it differs significantly from actual printable quantity for specific usage patterns like picture printing
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic selection between ISO standard mode and average-based mode. Users can switch between these modes depending on their needs: ISO mode for standardized comparisons and average mode for practical accuracy in specific usage scenarios. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by making both methods available rather than forcing a single approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the printable quantity estimation functionality into distinct calculation modes (ISO standard and average-based). Each mode is optimized for specific purposes: ISO mode for standardization and average mode for practical accuracy. This segmentation allows users to select the appropriate method for their specific needs without compromise.
3Ease of operation
If the image forming apparatus displays only one printable quantity value, then the display is simple and easy to understand, but it cannot provide comprehensive information for users with different usage patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The display is segmented into multiple modes showing different printable quantity calculations. Users can select between viewing ISO standard printable quantity and average-based printable quantity. This segmentation provides comprehensive information while maintaining simplicity through clear mode selection and distinct display options for each calculation method.
Solution Approach 2:
The display dynamically adapts to user needs by allowing switching between different information presentations. The system can show different printable quantity values based on the selected calculation mode, providing comprehensive information without overwhelming the user with simultaneous displays of all possible values.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus, having a recorder, a display, an input interface, a memory, and a controller, is provided. The controller is configured to control the recorder to consume colorant to print images on sheets, count a consumption value and a quantity of the sheets consumed, determine an average usage value based on the consumption value and the quantity of the sheets, obtain a filled amount value and determine a first printable quantity, determine a second printable quantity, control the display to display a first screen including a first object indicating the first printable quantity in the display, control the display to display a second screen including a second object indicating the second printable quantity in the display, and control the display to display a screen including a third object, through which one of the first object and the second object to be displayed in the display is selectable.