Printer Relay Server Cross-Segment Image Data Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data distribution methods are inconvenient as they often require users to choose between printing or electronic data distribution, with additional processing steps for image data transmission, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A terminal device and information sharing system utilizing a relay server and DLNA communication method to enable wireless network connectivity between terminal devices, allowing for the transmission of print data as image data across different network segments, with identification images used to facilitate device ID acquisition and content distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If print data is output as image data for distribution, then paper consumption is reduced and time/effort for printing is saved, but additional processing steps (compression, archiving, transmission) are added making the process more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The printer device is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it can both print physical copies and transmit image data directly to terminal devices. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate electronic distribution processes, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining paperless operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The printer acts as an intermediary device between the information processing device and terminal devices. It converts print data to image data and facilitates direct transmission to terminals, simplifying the distribution chain by eliminating the need for manual compression, archiving, and email attachment processes.
2Loss of substance
If material is distributed as image data via email attachment, then paper resources are saved, but users must retrieve and open the data from storage location requiring additional operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic delivery of image data directly to terminal devices without requiring user intervention for retrieval. The printer automatically transmits the data to designated terminals, and users receive notifications with direct access links, eliminating manual storage location navigation and file opening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The printer serves as a mediator that handles the entire distribution process automatically. It converts print data to image data, transmits it directly to terminal devices, and manages the delivery process, freeing users from manual retrieval and opening operations while maintaining paperless distribution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If terminal devices are in different network segments, then network flexibility and adaptability are improved, but direct communication between devices becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing device acts as a gateway or intermediary between different network segments. It receives image data from the printer and forwards it to terminal devices in other segments, enabling reliable cross-segment communication while maintaining network flexibility and segmentation benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture explicitly supports network segmentation by allowing the information processing device to bridge different segments. This enables terminal devices to remain in separate network segments for security and management purposes while still allowing controlled communication through the information processing device gateway.
4Device complexity
If users must choose between printing or electronic distribution, then resource allocation is simplified, but convenience and efficiency of data distribution are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The printer device is enhanced to perform both traditional printing and electronic distribution functions. Users can select either option from a unified interface, and the printer handles both workflows natively. This eliminates the need to choose between separate systems and provides convenience of both methods through a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the printing function and electronic distribution function into a single printer device. This consolidation allows users to access both distribution methods through one interface and one device, improving convenience and efficiency while maintaining simple resource allocation decisions.
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal device includes: an output unit which outputs a terminal identification image including first terminal identification information used to identify an own terminal device; a display unit which displays a list of one or more other terminal devices acquiring the terminal identification information; and a data transmission unit which executes processing of transmitting data to another terminal device selected from the list.