Remote Operation Motion Detection for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote operation of image forming apparatuses using mobile devices can lead to unintended mode changes and setting resets due to inactivity, disrupting user workflows and increasing power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a motion detection system within both the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus to maintain the operating state when a remote operation is detected, preventing mode changes and setting resets as long as user motion is recognized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the image forming apparatus switches to power saving mode after a prescribed time of inactivity, then power consumption is reduced, but the remote operation is interrupted and the user experiences workflow disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting user motion before the inactivity timeout expires and proactively preventing the power saving mode transition. The motion detection function monitors user presence and activity, and when motion is detected during a remote operation session, the system resets the inactivity timer or blocks the mode switch, ensuring the apparatus remains in normal mode throughout the user's remote operation workflow.
2Productivity
If the image forming apparatus resets settings after a prescribed time of inactivity, then system resources are freed, but the user's configured settings are lost and reconfiguration is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects user motion in advance of the inactivity timeout and preemptively prevents the setting reset operation. By monitoring motion sensors during remote operation sessions, the system identifies when a user is actively engaged and blocks the automatic setting reset function, thereby preserving the user's configured settings throughout the duration of the remote operation without interfering with normal resource management when the user is truly inactive.
3Extent of automation
If the image forming apparatus monitors user inactivity to trigger mode changes and setting resets, then power management and system maintenance are automated, but unintended interruptions occur during remote operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces feedback by continuously monitoring motion sensor data during remote operation sessions and using this information to dynamically adjust the inactivity detection logic. The motion detection feedback loop provides real-time information about user presence and activity level, allowing the system to distinguish between genuine inactivity (when the user has finished operating) and temporary pauses (when the user is still engaged but momentarily stationary), thereby preventing false triggering of mode changes and setting resets during active remote operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures continuous remote operation without interruptions and maintains optimal power usage by preventing unnecessary mode changes and setting resets, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a motion detecting portion to detect a motion of the user
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus remotely controls an image forming apparatus having an operating state changeable. The information processing apparatus includes a remote operation accepting portion to accept a user operation, and a remote control portion to remotely control the image forming apparatus on the basis of a remote operation accepted by the remote operation accepting portion. The remote control portion includes a motion detecting portion to detect a motion of the user, and a state maintaining portion to control the image forming apparatus not to change the operating state while a remote-operation motion for inputting a remote operation is detected by the motion detecting portion after a communication with the image forming apparatus has been established.