Printer Port Information Switching for Seamless Device Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printer management systems do not effectively handle scenarios where multiple printers share the same driver, and if one printer is removed from the network due to disposal or temporary non-use, the system does not efficiently allow another printer of the same model to take its place, leading to user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A computer-readable storage medium with an information processing program that identifies and switches to an alternative printer of the same model when a printer is non-operational, by storing port information for the alternative printer and deleting the information of the non-operational printer, ensuring seamless functionality and user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a driver is installed for a specific printer, then the printer can be operated, but when the printer is removed from the network, the system cannot automatically switch to an alternative printer of the same model
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by storing port information for multiple printers of the same model in advance. When a printer is removed, the system can automatically switch to an alternative printer without requiring user intervention, as the alternative printer's port information was already stored and prepared.
Solution Approach 2:
The system receives status information from printers indicating whether they are in use or not. Based on this feedback, the system automatically identifies when a printer is removed and triggers the switching process to an alternative printer, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changes in printer availability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system stores port information for multiple printers, then alternative printers can be identified, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a copy of port information for alternative printers of the same model. Instead of managing complex relationships between printers, the system stores duplicate port information entries that can be automatically activated when the original printer is removed, simplifying the switching mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage section is designed to handle multiple types of information universally - it can store port information for the currently used printer as well as port information for alternative printers of the same model. This universal storage approach simplifies the system architecture by using a single mechanism for multiple purposes.
3Reliability
If the system automatically switches to an alternative printer, then continuity of service is maintained, but obsolete printer information may be stored
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically discards port information of printers that are no longer in use by receiving status information indicating the printer is not being used. When an alternative printer is activated, the system recovers and utilizes the stored port information of the alternative printer while discarding the obsolete information of the removed printer.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing program stored in a computer readable storage medium is usable for an information processing apparatus which is configured to communicate with a plurality of devices, which includes a first storage section, in which a driver and a plurality of pieces of port information are stored, and which instructs a control objective device, a port information of which is stored in the first storage section, to execute a function thereof. The program makes the apparatus execute steps including: a receiving step for receiving a status information from the control objective device; a first identifying step for identifying the control objective device; a second identifying step for identifying an alternative device operable by the driver for the control objective device; and a first storage step for storing a port information of the alternative device in the first storage section.