Network Scanner Push via Temporary Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inexpensive image forming apparatuses without auxiliary storage devices face difficulties in realizing scanner-driven push operations due to limited memory capacity and the absence of a hard disk.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system with a network-connected image forming apparatus and information processing apparatus, utilizing a button, memory device, scanner, and control units to store and transmit press-down information, read document images, and reset press-down information, enabling scanner-driven operations without auxiliary storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the image forming apparatus has no auxiliary storage device (HDD), then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the scanner-driven push operation cannot be realized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a memory device as an intermediary component between the scanner and the network interface. This memory device temporarily stores scanned image data and enables the push operation by allowing the system to hold data in memory while managing network transmission, thus resolving the contradiction between eliminating auxiliary storage and maintaining push operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent shifts the storage function from a traditional auxiliary storage device (HDD) to a memory device with temporary storage capability. By changing the dimension of storage (from permanent to temporary), the system can achieve push operations without requiring a full auxiliary storage device, thus reducing complexity while maintaining functionality
2Ease of manufacture
If the image forming apparatus has no auxiliary storage device, then the cost is reduced, but the image data storage and transmission capability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the memory device to store image data in a specific format and structure before network transmission. The control unit prepares the data in advance, organizes it according to predetermined rules, and manages the transmission sequence, ensuring reliable data transfer without requiring expensive auxiliary storage devices
3Ease of manufacture
If the memory capacity is small, then the device cost is reduced, but the scanner-driven push operation cannot be realized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic memory management where the memory device's usage is optimized based on real-time needs. The control unit dynamically allocates and manages memory resources, clearing stored data after successful transmission and reallocating space for new scans. This dynamic approach allows small memory capacity to support push operations effectively by ensuring memory is always available when needed
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 20 and an information processing apparatus 10 coupled to the network 30. The image forming apparatus 10 stores, in a memory device 23, an information processing apparatus identifier that is assigned to a button 261 of the image forming apparatus 20 and transmits, to the information processing apparatus 10, press-down information of the button 261 that includes the information processing apparatus identifier. The image forming apparatus 20 additionally reads, if, in the information processing apparatus 20, it is determined the information processing apparatus identifier in the press-down information matches an information processing apparatus identifier stored within the information processing apparatus 10, a document image set in a scanner 27, in response to a scan execution request that is received from the information processing apparatus 10 via the network 30. The image forming apparatus 20 further transmits image data of the document image to the information processing apparatus 10 via the network 30, and resets the press-down information.