Unified Driver Interface for Multi-Function Device Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face complexity in operating devices with multiple functions, such as printers and scanners, as they need to store information for each type of process, leading to increased user operations.
Innovation Solution
A data processing apparatus with an operating unit, storage unit, and communication unit that allows selection and storage of devices capable of executing multiple functions, enabling a single device to perform both printer and scanner functions, reducing the need for multiple device selections and storage of information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a driver is installed on the computer for each type of device being controlled, then the device can be controlled, but the user operations become complex when the device has multiple functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single device to perform multiple functions (printing, scanning, copying) through a unified driver interface. The system allows one driver to control various device functions rather than requiring separate drivers for each function, thereby simplifying user operations while maintaining device versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple device control functions into a single integrated driver interface. By combining printing, scanning, and copying operations under one driver framework, the system reduces the number of separate operations users must perform and simplifies the overall control process while maintaining all necessary device capabilities.
2Reliability
If separate drivers are used for each device function, then each function can be controlled independently, but the number of user operations for storing device information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the system automatically detect and register device information when a device is connected, rather than requiring users to manually input device details for each function. The driver automatically stores necessary device parameters and configurations, reducing the time users must spend on information entry while maintaining reliable function control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the driver to automatically manage device information and configurations without requiring extensive user input. The system self-registers device details, automatically configures necessary parameters, and maintains independent control of each function, thereby reducing user operational burden while preserving functional independence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are stored in correlation with each function, then device selection flexibility is improved, but the complexity of managing device information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by organizing device information into distinct, manageable data structures that separate device identification, function configuration, and operational parameters. This segmentation allows the system to maintain multiple devices and functions in an organized manner, preserving selection flexibility while reducing management complexity through structured information architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A data processing apparatus is configured to receive a selection of a first function and search for one or more devices which has the capability to perform that first function. The apparatus may then receive a selection of the one or more devices for performing that first function and, in conjunction, determine whether the selected device has the capability to execute a second function. The device identification data may be stored. Subsequently, if the selected device is determined to be capable of executing the second function, which is different from the first function selected, and the second function is further selected, the previously selected device may be displayed as having the capability to execute the selected second function. Otherwise, the apparatus does not display the previously selected device as being able to execute the selected second function.