Printing Device Communication Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing communication systems between printing devices and terminal devices face increased processing loads when switching between infrastructure and ad hoc communication modes, as they often require searching for connection signals, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential communication errors.
Innovation Solution
A printing device configured to switch between direct and indirect communication modes by accepting mode-switch instructions, allowing it to communicate directly with a terminal device and then switch back to indirect communication, thereby reducing processing loads and improving communication efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal device searches periodically for connection signals to switch communication modes, then the communication mode can be switched from infrastructure mode to ad hoc mode, but the processing load in both the terminal device and the printing device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The printing device proactively transmits connection signals for ad hoc mode before the terminal device needs to switch modes. By preparing the connection signal in advance and making it available to the terminal device, the system eliminates the need for periodic searching, thereby reducing processing load while maintaining mode-switching capability
Solution Approach 2:
The printing device acts as an intermediary that provides connection information to the terminal device. Instead of the terminal device actively searching for signals, the printing device mediates the connection process by transmitting necessary connection information, simplifying the terminal device's task and reducing its processing burden
2Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal device searches periodically for connection signals, then mode switching can be achieved, but communication efficiency decreases due to continuous signal searching
Solution Approach 1:
The connection signal for ad hoc mode is transmitted in advance by the printing device. This preliminary action allows the terminal device to switch modes immediately when needed without engaging in time-consuming periodic searches, thereby improving communication efficiency while preserving mode-switching flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system skips the periodic signal searching phase by having the printing device directly provide connection information. This rushes through the connection establishment process, eliminating unnecessary delays and improving overall communication efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system includes a printing device, a terminal device, and another device. The printing device includes a communication interface that enables communication through at least two modes; an operating portion that accepts a mode-switch instruction; a printing portion that prints an image based on print data, and a processor. In a direct communication mode, the printing device communicates directly with the terminal device. In an indirect communication mode, the printing device communicates indirectly with the other device. The processor switches the communication mode from the indirect communication mode to the direct communication mode when the operating portion accepts the mode-switch instruction, and switches the communication mode from the direct communication mode to the indirect communication mode when the processor determines that the printing device has finished receiving print data. Communication between the printing and terminal devices includes transmitting the print data from the terminal device to the printing device.