Printer Object Merging for Seamless Hardware ID Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of multiple printers with the same type and hardware ID face inconvenience in switching and setting printer objects, as existing systems require manual switching and initial settings for each printer, and fail to distinguish between substitute and faulty printers.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that acquires device information, deletes existing device objects if matching information is found in a new device object, and updates or generates new device objects using information from existing objects, allowing efficient switching and setting of device objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a new printer object is formed for each printer with the same hardware ID, then each printer can be individually managed, but users must manually switch between printer objects and perform initial settings for each printer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple printer objects with identical device information into a single shared printer object. When a printer with the same hardware ID and device information is detected, the system combines it with the existing printer object rather than creating a new one, allowing multiple printers to share the same object and settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the printer object universal by allowing it to represent multiple physical printers with identical characteristics. The single printer object can be used for multiple printers, eliminating the need for separate objects and reducing the need for repeated configuration.
2Measurement precision
If multiple printer objects are created for printers of the same type, then each printer can be tracked individually, but users cannot easily identify substitute printers and must perform initial settings again
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines device information from multiple printers into a single shared printer object, including common settings such as paper size, resolution, and other configuration parameters. This merging eliminates redundant settings and allows users to switch between printers without reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration by storing device information and settings in the shared printer object during the first printer connection. When subsequent printers with identical hardware IDs are connected, the pre-stored settings are automatically applied, eliminating the need for repeated initial setup.
3Measurement precision
If the OS compares USB IDs to determine printer identity, then unique identification is achieved, but printers with the same hardware ID are treated as different devices requiring separate objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different identification criteria for different purposes: USB ID is used for unique device identification and port management, while hardware ID is used for determining whether printers are of the same type. This local differentiation allows the system to distinguish between unique identity and device type, enabling the merging of same-type printers into shared objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the identification process into two levels: USB ID for individual device distinction and hardware ID for device type classification. This segmentation allows the system to maintain unique identification while simultaneously recognizing printers of the same type for merging purposes, reducing the overall number of printer objects needed.
Data Source
AI summary
If a new device object matching at least a portion of device information concerning a device of an existing device object is detected, the device information of the existing device object is acquired, and the existing device object is deleted. Device information of the new device object is updated by using the acquired device information.