Template Image Keyword Association for Manual Input

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing techniques for associating keywords with image data are inconvenient for users, requiring them to manually input both image and keyword data, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus and method that generates template image data with a body area for writing information and a keyword area, allowing users to write keywords directly on a printed template, simplifying the association process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a user manually inputs image data and keyword data using a computer, then keyword association with image data is achieved, but user convenience deteriorates due to cumbersome operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidtime for keyword association

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-generates template image data with designated keyword writing areas before the user performs the association task. The template includes structured regions where users can simply write keywords by hand, eliminating the need for complex computer operations. This preliminary preparation of the template resolves the contradiction by making the actual user action simple and quick.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a template image as an intermediary medium between the user and the keyword association process. Instead of directly inputting keywords into a computer system, the user writes on the printed template, which then serves as the input medium. This intermediary simplifies the interaction and improves ease of operation while maintaining efficient data capture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If manual computer input is required for both image and keyword data, then data association is completed, but operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of keyword inputVSAvoidcomplexity of input process

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The template image is segmented into distinct functional areas: a body area for image data and keyword writing areas for keyword input. This segmentation allows users to focus on simple writing actions in designated zones rather than navigating complex computer interfaces. The structured division resolves the contradiction by simplifying the user's task while maintaining systematic data capture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses a printed template copy as the input medium instead of requiring direct computer input. The template serves as a physical copy that the user can annotate by hand, then scan or photograph to digitize. This copying approach eliminates the need for complex computer operations while preserving the association functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS9898236B2Image processing apparatus and program for printing template images using keyword data

Publication Date: 2018.02.20 BROTHER KOGYO KK

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes a processor, and memory storing computer readable instructions, when executed by the processor, causing the apparatus to operate as: a template image data generating unit configured to generate template image data representing a template image including a body area for writing information therein, and also including a keyword area for writing information therein for specifying a keyword to be associated with target image data representing a target image including the body area having information written therein, from among plural keywords; and a template image data providing unit configured to provide the template image data to a printing unit.