Scanner Extension Application for Page Continuous Copy
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Solution Overview
Problem
The standard class driver in Windows does not support the page continuous copy function, limiting users from utilizing this feature when scanning double-page spreads, despite the availability of this functionality in certain scan devices.
Innovation Solution
A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and method that includes an extension application, which adds support for the page continuous copy function to a general-purpose scan software, enabling it to be used across multiple scanner brands by displaying a setting screen and executing scan processing based on user settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard class driver is used for scan devices, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity is worsened due to inability to support manufacturer-specific functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension application as an intermediary layer between the standard class driver and the scan device. This extension application receives scan instructions from the standard driver, adds manufacturer-specific parameters (such as page continuous copy settings), and transmits the enhanced instructions to the scan device. This mediator approach allows the standard driver to maintain its simplicity while the extension application provides the necessary adaptability for manufacturer-specific functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the scan driver functionality into two separate components: the standard class driver that handles general scan operations, and an extension application that handles manufacturer-specific functions. This segmentation allows each component to specialize - the standard driver maintains broad compatibility and ease of use, while the extension application provides targeted support for specific device capabilities without complicating the overall system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a manufacturer-specific scan driver is installed, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation is worsened due to separate installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of the standard class driver with the extension application. The extension application is designed to work in conjunction with the standard driver rather than replacing it, combining the advantages of both approaches. Users benefit from the automatic availability of the standard driver while also gaining access to manufacturer-specific functions through the extension application, eliminating the need to choose between ease of operation and adaptability.
3Device complexity
If the standard driver is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision is worsened due to lack of support for specific scan functions
Solution Approach 1:
The extension application performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring manufacturer-specific parameters before scan instructions are sent to the device. It prepares the necessary settings (such as page continuous copy mode, opening type specifications) in advance, ensuring that when the scan operation executes, all required parameters are already in place. This preliminary configuration enables precise control over scan functions without adding complexity to the standard driver architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program supporting a general-purpose program which can be commonly used for scanners of a plurality of makers. The program is executed to thereby execute a method of controlling an information processing apparatus in which the program is installed. A setting screen is displayed on a display unit of the information processing apparatus, for receiving a setting of a predetermined scan function that divides image data of a read image of one original into a plurality of image data and outputs the divided image data. A command for causing a scanner to execute scan processing based on the setting received on the setting screen is output.