Image Scanner Template-Based Email Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulty in inputting e-mail setting information, such as addresses, into image reading apparatuses without knowing the predetermined format, leading to a high operational load and complexity in selecting desired e-mail addresses from a large number of registered options.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus that outputs a template for inputting e-mail setting information, allowing users to input and store this information using a storage apparatus with user-specific areas, enabling easy access and selection of pre-configured e-mail setting files, thereby simplifying the process and reducing user load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If e-mail setting information is inputted into an e-mail in accordance with a predetermined format, then the e-mail setting information can be transmitted to the image reading apparatus, but it becomes difficult for users who do not know the predetermined format to input the information correctly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a template that copies the required e-mail setting information structure, allowing users to fill in data according to the template format rather than knowing the predetermined format. The template serves as a reusable copy of the information structure that guides user input.
Solution Approach 2:
The template acts as an intermediary between the user and the image reading apparatus. Instead of users directly inputting information in the predetermined format required by the apparatus, the template mediates this process by providing a user-friendly interface that translates user input into the required format.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of e-mail addresses are registered in the image reading apparatus, then more destinations can be selected, but it becomes difficult for users to select the desired e-mail address from the large number of options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the e-mail setting information into structured fields within a template (such as recipient address, subject, body). This segmentation allows users to input and select information in organized portions rather than dealing with a large undifferentiated list of e-mail addresses.
Solution Approach 2:
The template is prepared in advance with all necessary fields for e-mail setting information. Users can fill in the template beforehand and save it, so when they need to send an e-mail, they can quickly select from pre-configured templates rather than manually selecting from numerous e-mail addresses each time.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus includes a scanner configured to read an image from a document, and a controller. The controller is configured to: output a template for inputting e-mail setting information including at least a destination; acquire the e-mail setting information included in an e-mail setting file from a storage apparatus in which the e-mail setting file is stored; and transmit image data read by the scanner to the destination included in the acquired e-mail setting information. The e-mail setting file is prepared by inputting the e-mail setting information into the template outputted. The storage apparatus has an area corresponding to user information, and the e-mail setting file is stored in the area corresponding to the user information of the storage apparatus. The controller accesses the e-mail setting file stored in the area corresponding to the user information by utilizing the user information.