Proximity-Based Function Execution for Multifunction Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in intuitively operating information processing apparatuses like multifunction printers due to the complexity of switching between functions, which often requires multiple input operations and screen changes, making it cumbersome to execute desired processing tasks.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus equipped with a detection unit for wireless communication devices, an acquisition unit to retrieve setting information based on the device's state, and an execution unit to perform functions corresponding to the detected state, utilizing near-field communication to simplify the operation by establishing or disconnecting communication based on proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple input operations and screen changes are required to execute functions, then the information processing apparatus can perform complex processing tasks, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting the mobile terminal's proximity state in advance and automatically acquiring and setting the appropriate function before the user needs to execute it. The detection unit monitors proximity, the acquisition unit retrieves corresponding setting information, and the execution unit activates the function automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually navigate through multiple screens and input operations.
2Ease of operation
If functions are switched based on proximity duration or count, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus implements multi-functionality by integrating a detection unit for proximity sensing, an acquisition unit for retrieving setting information, and an execution unit for activating functions. This universal system handles multiple operations (detection, data acquisition, function execution) through a unified proximity-based control mechanism, managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the mobile terminal's proximity state, acquiring the corresponding setting information, and executing the appropriate function without requiring manual user input. The apparatus serves itself by autonomously completing the entire workflow from detection to function execution, reducing the operational burden on users.
3Reliability
If manual input operations are required for function selection, then the reliability of function execution is improved, but the loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the mobile terminal's proximity state and pre-acquires the corresponding setting information before the user needs to execute the function. This preliminary action ensures that when the user brings the terminal close, the appropriate function is already prepared and can be executed immediately, reducing operation time while maintaining reliability through accurate proximity-based function matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the proximity state between the mobile terminal and the information processing apparatus. The detection unit provides real-time feedback on proximity, which triggers the acquisition unit to retrieve setting information and the execution unit to activate the corresponding function, creating a responsive loop that reduces operation time while ensuring accurate function execution based on detected proximity conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
In response to detecting a wireless communication apparatus, an information processing apparatus acquires from the wireless communication apparatus setting information for causing a function corresponding to a display screen to be executed, and executes the function based on the acquired setting information.