VNC Relay Architecture for Dual Device Remote Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote maintenance systems for image forming apparatuses connected via a print control apparatus hinder effective remote operation of both the image forming apparatus and the print control apparatus, as the VNC server function is typically only accessible from the call center to the image forming apparatus, preventing service personnel from operating the print control apparatus's screen.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that allows a terminal device to connect directly to both the image forming apparatus and the print control apparatus via a network, enabling the terminal device to establish VNC connections with both devices, and the print control apparatus to relay VNC communications to the image forming apparatus, thus allowing remote operation of both apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a print control apparatus is connected between a terminal device and an image forming apparatus to relay VNC connections, then network address translation is enabled allowing terminal devices on LAN to access the VNC server, but the service person cannot operate the print control apparatus's screen
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device is configured to establish VNC connections with both the image forming apparatus and the print control apparatus simultaneously. The print control apparatus includes a VNC server that enables its own screen to be displayed on the terminal device, while also maintaining its function as a print server. This multi-functionality allows the terminal device to operate both devices through a single connection interface, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
2Productivity
If the print control apparatus relays VNC communication to the image forming apparatus, then remote maintenance of the image forming apparatus is enabled, but the service person cannot check or operate the print control apparatus interface
Solution Approach 1:
The print control apparatus acts as an intermediary device that serves dual purposes: it relays VNC communication from the terminal device to the image forming apparatus while simultaneously exposing its own operation screen through its VNC server function. This allows the terminal device to access both the image forming apparatus and the print control apparatus interface, preventing loss of information about the control interface while maintaining remote maintenance efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system in which a terminal device and an information processing apparatus are connected via a network, and an image forming apparatus is connected to the information processing apparatus. The terminal device transmits a VNC connection request to the image forming apparatus via the network, as a VNC client. The information processing apparatus relays communication between the terminal device and the image forming apparatus, and transmits an operation screen for the information processing apparatus to the VNC client. Upon receiving the VNC connection request via the information processing apparatus, the image forming apparatus transfers the VNC connection request to the information processing apparatus. Also, the image forming apparatus executes VNC communication with the terminal device via the information processing apparatus, and performs control to transfer the VNC communication to the information processing apparatus.