Printer Location and Feature Search via Indoor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of portable data devices, such as smartphones and tablets, face challenges in identifying and locating multifunction peripherals (MFPs) with specific capabilities within a network, as they often receive lists of nearby printers by IP address or name without information on the devices' functionalities or locations, making it difficult to select the appropriate printer for their needs, especially in unfamiliar environments or when IP addresses change.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to search for printers with specific capabilities by inputting keywords, displaying proximity and location information, using geo-location and indoor positioning systems like GPS and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Low Energy beacons, and providing navigation to the selected MFP through map applications, enabling users to select printers based on requirements such as firmware, model, and functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If users are provided with a list of nearby printers by IP address or name, then the quantity of printer information is increased, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users cannot identify printer functionalities or locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments printer information into distinct categories: functional capabilities (color printing, duplex printing, finishing options), location data (floor, room, building), and technical specifications (firmware version, model). This segmentation allows users to filter and search for printers based on specific needs without being overwhelmed by complete printer lists.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary search interface between the user and the printer list. This intermediary layer processes user requirements, filters printers based on specified criteria, and presents only relevant results. The intermediary translates user needs into targeted printer selections, eliminating the need for users to manually examine complete printer inventories.
2Ease of operation
If comprehensive printer capability information is displayed to users, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional search and filtering functions
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated filtering and matching algorithms. When users input their printing requirements, the system automatically compares these requirements against the capability database of available printers, performs the filtering operation, and presents matched results. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual printer evaluation by users while keeping the interface simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual representation of printer capabilities and locations that mirrors the physical printer inventory. This digital copy allows users to search and filter printers based on their needs without physically accessing or examining each printer. The virtual model simplifies the search process while maintaining accurate information about actual printer capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If location information and navigation are added to help users find printers, then the ease of operation improves, but the use of energy increases due to GPS and positioning system activation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements partial action by activating location and navigation services only when users actually need to locate a printer. Instead of continuously running GPS and positioning systems, the feature is triggered on-demand when users select a printer and choose to navigate to it. This reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining the capability when needed.
4Ease of operation
If the system filters printers based on specific user requirements, then the ease of operation improves, but the loss of information increases as some printers are excluded from results
Solution Approach 1:
The filtering system is dynamic and adaptive. Users can adjust their criteria and see how results change in real-time. The system allows users to modify their requirements, add or remove filters, and re-run searches to explore different sets of available printers. This dynamic approach ensures users don't permanently lose access to other printer options by making their selection criteria too restrictive.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for identification and location of user identified, feature specific printers works in conjunction with a user's smartphone or tablet computer. A user inputs their desired printer features into their device, and a listing of candidate printers within a search perimeter is rendered. A distance between the user device and each candidate printer is calculated from a determined location user device relative to locations of each of the candidate printers. The user selects their desired printer from the candidates, and directions for the user to walk to the selected printer are generated and displayed.