Proof Print Scan Feedback for Remote Print Setting Checks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In a multi-user network environment, users need to physically travel back and forth between their host device and a remotely located image forming apparatus to check the status of a print job, which is time-consuming and inefficient, especially when adjustments are needed based on a test printout.
Innovation Solution
The host device supports a proof print function that allows users to generate and display a scanned image of the printout on their device, enabling them to check and adjust print settings without physically visiting the image forming apparatus, reducing the need for multiple trips and print jobs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users physically travel to the image forming apparatus to check printout status, then they can directly view the printed output, but this increases time consumption and reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy (image) of the physical printout and transmits it to the host device. Users can view this copied image on their host device screen, eliminating the need to physically travel to the image forming apparatus to check the printout status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary mechanism (image capture and transmission system) between the printout and the user. Instead of direct viewing at the apparatus, the image is captured, processed, and transmitted to the host device as an intermediary step, allowing users to check status remotely.
2Manufacturing precision
If users make multiple trips to check and adjust print settings, then they can ensure print quality, but this increases the number of print jobs and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
By providing a digital copy of the printout to the host device, users can inspect print quality and make adjustments without physically retrieving the printout. This reduces the need for multiple print jobs and increases productivity while maintaining print quality standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the printed output is captured as an image, transmitted to the host device, and displayed for user review. Users can see the actual print result, evaluate quality, and provide feedback for adjustments, all without leaving their workstation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the image forming apparatus is remotely located, then it can serve multiple users in a network environment, but this increases the complexity of monitoring and adjusting print jobs
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to independently monitor and adjust their own print jobs by receiving images of printouts directly on their host devices. Each user can self-service their print monitoring needs without requiring centralized control or complex administrative systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The image transmission system acts as an intermediary that simplifies remote print job monitoring. Instead of complex network protocols or centralized management interfaces, the system uses straightforward image capture and transmission to bridge the gap between the remote apparatus and user workstations.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples include an image forming apparatus, including; a transceiver to receive a first print job from the host device; an image former to generate a printout corresponding to at least one page of a target document of the first print job; a scanner; and a controller. The controller is to: in response to a proof print function activated for the first print job, control the scanner to generate a scan image of the printout and control the transceiver to send the scan image to the host device; and in response to reception of, from the host device, information regarding a change of a print setting for the first print job, control the image former to perform, based on the information, image generation of the first print job.