Virtual Device Object Consolidates Printer Queues

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for managing printer queues require multiple virtual device objects to be displayed on the desktop, leading to occupied display area and inefficient user operation due to the need for separate objects for different settings, which complicates the selection and utilization of printer queues.

Innovation Solution

A client apparatus that utilizes a single virtual device object to manage multiple printer queues, allowing users to select and execute output processes through a unified interface, effectively utilizing the desktop space by integrating multiple printer queues into a single user interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple virtual device objects are displayed on the desktop to manage different printer queues, then each printer queue can be accessed separately, but the display area of the desktop is occupied and the interface becomes cluttered

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinter queue management capabilityVSAvoiddesktop display area

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple printer queues into a single virtual device object interface. Instead of displaying separate virtual device objects for each printer queue on the desktop, the system combines them into one unified object that provides access to multiple printer queues through an internal selection mechanism, thereby reducing desktop clutter while maintaining full printer queue management capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single virtual device object is designed to perform multiple functions by providing access to multiple printer queues. The object includes a display area that shows multiple printer queue names and allows users to select among them, making one object universal for managing different printer queues rather than requiring separate dedicated objects for each queue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple virtual device objects are created for different printer settings, then each setting can be dedicated to specific printer queues, but the number of objects increases and complicates user operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvededicated printer setting capabilityVSAvoiduser operation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple printer queue selections into a single virtual device object rather than creating separate objects for each printer setting. This merging approach maintains the ability to access dedicated printer settings while simplifying user operation by reducing the number of objects users must manage on their desktop.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent resolves the complexity by moving the selection dimension from the desktop object level to the internal functional level. Instead of having multiple objects at the desktop level, the single virtual device object contains a multi-dimensional selection capability that allows users to choose among multiple printer queues through a structured interface within the object itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10949134B2Client apparatus, control method, and storage medium

Publication Date: 2021.03.16 CANON KK

AI summary

A first screen associated with printer queues is displayed in response to a user operation, and an output process of a document is executed using a printer queue selected on the first screen by a user operation.