Terminal Device Print File Selection via Intermediation Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printer technologies, such as Google Cloud Print, often perform prints automatically after an image file is submitted to the server, leading to unwanted printing without user intention, and can be inconvenient for users who need to manually select print settings and files.
Innovation Solution
A system where a terminal device uses a print intermediation server to manage file identification and print instructions, allowing users to select files and settings before initiating a print job, using NFC and Wi-Fi communications to interact with the printer and server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the printer automatically performs a print immediately after the image file is submitted to the server, then the printing process is simplified and automated, but the user cannot select specific files or print settings, leading to unwanted printing
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device serves as an intermediary between the user and the printer. It receives the print instruction from the user, selects the appropriate file from multiple files stored on the server, and transmits the selected file to the printer. This intermediary role allows the system to maintain automation while giving the user control over which file is printed.
2Ease of operation
If the terminal device manages file selection and print instructions, then user convenience is improved, but the system complexity increases due to additional communication protocols and interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device performs multiple functions: it acts as a user interface for file selection, a communication bridge between the server and printer, and a controller for transmitting print instructions. By consolidating these functions into a single device, the system avoids the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while providing comprehensive user control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple files are registered on the print intermediation server, then the system provides versatility for printing different files, but the user interface must display and manage multiple file identification information
Solution Approach 1:
The selection screen is segmented to display file identification information in an organized manner. Each file is presented with its unique identifier, allowing the user to easily distinguish and select among multiple files. The terminal device divides the complex task of managing multiple files into simple, discrete selection options for the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal device may send authentication information to a printer, obtain, from a print intermediation server by using the authentication information, M pieces of file identification information for identifying M files in a case where M pieces of file related information and the authentication information are being registered in association in the print intermediation server, control a display unit of the terminal device to display a first selection screen causing a user to select first file identification information from among the M pieces of file identification information, and send, to the printer, a print instruction including the first file identification information. The authentication information and the first file identification information may be used by the printer, in order to obtain, from the print intermediation server, print data created from a first file identified by the first file identification information.