Printer Parameter Set Activation for Faster Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Configuring parameters for printers is time-consuming for users, leaving room for improvement.

Innovation Solution

A printer with a communication interface, memory, and controller that automatically activates a target parameter set upon receiving an activation command, reducing user effort and time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If parameters are manually configured by user input, then the printer can perform control based on those parameters, but the operations for configuring the parameters are time-consuming for the user

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter configuration operationVSAvoidparameter configuration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring parameter sets in the printer before they are needed. Multiple parameter sets (first parameter set, second parameter set, etc.) are stored in advance in the printer's memory, associated with different execution conditions. When a specific condition is met, the corresponding pre-configured parameter set is automatically selected and activated, eliminating the need for users to manually configure parameters at the time of use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the printer to automatically select and activate appropriate parameter sets based on execution conditions without requiring user intervention. The controller automatically determines which parameter set to use by evaluating conditions such as document types, printing requirements, or other operational parameters, and seamlessly switches between parameter sets autonomously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Extent of automation

If multiple parameter sets are stored for different execution conditions, then the printer can automatically select appropriate parameters, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter selection automationVSAvoidparameter set management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the parameter configuration into discrete, manageable parameter sets. Each parameter set is a self-contained unit associated with specific execution conditions. This segmentation allows the printer to handle complexity by treating each parameter set as an independent module, making it easier to store, retrieve, and manage multiple parameter configurations without overwhelming the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by creating a multi-functional parameter set structure that can serve multiple purposes. The same parameter set storage mechanism handles various types of parameters (printing parameters, finishing parameters, etc.), and the condition evaluation system works universally across different execution scenarios. This universal framework reduces overall system complexity despite supporting diverse parameter configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260032201A1Printer configuring target parameter set as active parameter set available for processing
Publication Date: 2026.01.29 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US20260032201A1 patent drawing
  • US20260032201A1 patent drawing
  • US20260032201A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A printer includes a communication interface, a memory, and a controller including one or more processors. The controller perform an activation process under an activation start condition including a requirement that a target parameter set including a plurality of target parameters is stored in the memory as an inactive parameter set not available for processing in the printer, a requirement that an activation command is received from an external device via the communication interface, and a requirement that the activation command is a command to activate the target parameter set. The activation process includes configuring the target parameter set as an active parameter set available for processing in the printer. The controller performs and a controlling process under a controlling condition including a requirement that the activation process is completed. The controlling process is based on the target parameter set.