Scanned Setting Data Selection for MFP Restoration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods, such as those described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-44299, are unable to selectively apply only part of the setting data to a target information processing apparatus, such as a multi-function peripheral, when repairing or extending the device, as they require applying all data including network settings even if a different IP address is desired.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that obtains setting values from a scanned image of a sheet, allowing users to selectively apply desired setting values by encoding them into codes like QR codes and applying them based on user input, such as checkmarks or radio buttons, ensuring only necessary settings are restored.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If all setting data is applied to the target apparatus during restoration, then the restoration process is simple and complete, but unnecessary settings are applied causing increased complexity and potential configuration conflicts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of restoration processVSAvoidcomplexity of setting configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The setting data is divided into multiple independent settings (e.g., printing settings, network settings, security settings). Each setting can be selectively applied or excluded during restoration based on user needs. The system processes and applies only the necessary settings rather than applying all settings at once, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining restoration simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of information

If all setting data is restored to ensure complete data transfer, then data completeness is improved, but user workload increases due to manual selection of necessary settings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of setting dataVSAvoiduser workload during restoration
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-processes the setting data by identifying and categorizing necessary settings before restoration. It automatically determines which settings should be applied based on the target apparatus type and configuration requirements, eliminating the need for users to manually select settings while ensuring data completeness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The restoration system automatically processes and applies setting data without requiring extensive user intervention. The system self-determines which settings are necessary and applies them automatically, reducing user workload while maintaining complete data transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of manufacture

If network settings are always applied during restoration, then network configuration is simplified, but adaptability decreases when different IP addresses or network configurations are needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of network configurationVSAvoidflexibility in network setting selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The network setting application is made dynamic and adjustable. The system allows users to selectively apply or exclude network settings based on their specific needs. The restoration process can adapt to different network configuration requirements (e.g., applying network settings for some apparatus types while excluding them for others), thereby maintaining both simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250240377A1Information processing apparatus, control method of information processing apparatus, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2025.07.24 CANON KK
  • US20250240377A1 patent drawing
  • US20250240377A1 patent drawing
  • US20250240377A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus is provided and enables a user to selectively apply setting data the user desires to be applied to target equipment. Information on various setting values is obtained from a scanned image of a sheet on which information on various setting values applicable to the information processing apparatus is printed. Then, based on the obtained information, a setting value designated by a user among the various setting values is applied to the information processing apparatus.