Remote Operation Screen Segmentation for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile terminals for remote operation of image forming apparatuses do not fully utilize all operation keys available on the image forming apparatus, leading to suboptimal operability due to disabled keys not corresponding to standard machine models.
Innovation Solution
A mobile terminal with a display controller, transmitter, determiner, and notifier that compares the operation functions of the image forming apparatus with the remote operation screen, enabling the display of additional functions and disabling unusable keys, thereby enhancing operability by displaying extended operation sections on the remote operation screen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard machine model operation screen is used for remote operation, then the mobile terminal can operate common functions, but additional functions specific to the actual machine model cannot be accessed
Solution Approach 1:
The operation screen is segmented into a standard operation area and an extended operation area. The standard area contains common functions accessible through a standard machine model screen, while the extended area contains additional functions specific to the actual machine model. This segmentation allows users to access both standard and additional functions without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the operation screen by displaying an extended operation area that overlays or supplements the standard operation area. This additional dimensional space allows presentation of machine-specific functions without replacing the standard interface, thereby increasing adaptability while maintaining interface simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If all operation keys are displayed on the remote operation screen, then complete functionality is available, but the screen becomes cluttered and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The operation keys are segmented into standard keys visible in the main operation area and additional keys placed in an extended operation area. This segmentation allows the main screen to remain clean and easy to use while still providing access to complete functionality through the extended area.
Solution Approach 2:
Different areas of the screen have different qualities: the standard operation area provides familiar, easy-to-use interfaces for common functions, while the extended operation area provides specialized access to additional functions. This local differentiation optimizes usability for each function type.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing system includes an image forming apparatus being an example of an information processing apparatus, and a user terminal. The image forming apparatus and the user terminal are directly and communicably connected by radio communication or the like. A remote operation screen for remotely operating the image forming apparatus is displayed on a display of the user terminal. On the remote operation screen, an additional function notifier is provided for notifying a user of existence of an additional function that is an operation function executable with an input device of the image forming apparatus to be operated, and is not executable with the remote operation screen in an initial state.