Selective Application Deletion in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face difficulties in selectively deleting problematic applications without erasing unrelated data, leading to unnecessary data loss and reinstallation of bundles.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a designating unit to select specific applications for deletion and a deleting unit to effectively remove only the designated files and folders associated with those applications, using a clear designation file to specify the target for deletion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bundle loading region is cleared to delete all data held by bundles, then the problem with problematic bundles can be resolved, but unrelated bundle data is also erased requiring reinstallation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the bundle loading region into individual bundle directories, each with its own manifest file. This allows selective deletion of problematic bundles while preserving unrelated ones. The segmentation enables precise targeting of deletion operations to specific bundles rather than clearing the entire loading region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by making deletion operations localized to specific bundles rather than applying a global clear operation. The system identifies and deletes only the manifest file and associated data of the problematic bundle, leaving other bundles untouched. This localized approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliability for the specific problem while preventing loss of unrelated bundle data.
2Loss of substance
If manual file selection is required for deletion, then precise control over what to delete is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically identify and delete problematic bundles without requiring manual file selection. When a bundle is identified as problematic (through error logs or user specification), the system autonomously locates its manifest file and associated data, then performs the deletion. This eliminates the need for users to manually navigate and select files, greatly simplifying the operation while maintaining precise control through automatic bundle identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifest file serves as an intermediary that facilitates automatic bundle identification and deletion. By storing bundle metadata and structure information in the manifest, the system can automatically locate and delete the complete bundle package without manual intervention. The intermediary manifest file bridges the gap between automatic deletion capability and precise control, eliminating the need for complex manual file selection.
3Reliability
If all bundles are deleted and reinstalled, then a complete system restoration is achieved, but productivity is significantly reduced due to reinstallation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the problematic bundle from the loading region for deletion, rather than removing all bundles. By identifying and extracting only the specific bundle causing issues (through manifest file location and associated data deletion), the system achieves necessary system restoration while preserving all other functional bundles. This extraction approach eliminates the need for complete reinstallation, thereby maintaining high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an image forming apparatus capable of adding and deleting applications, the apparatus comprising: a designating unit configured to designate an application and a file to be deleted; and a deleting unit configured to delete a designated file associated with the application designated by the designating unit.