Web-Based Application Trial via Server API Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data processing systems, such as image forming apparatuses, restrict non-power users from trying or installing applications without administrative privileges, limiting their ability to use enhancement applications before the main application is installed.
Innovation Solution
A data processing system that allows users to access and use a second application corresponding to a first application without installing it on the data processing apparatus, by displaying an HTML-based operation screen of the second application on a Web browser and utilizing a server-provided API to execute data processing instructions, enabling trial version usage without installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If application installation is restricted to power users only, then system security and stability are maintained, but user convenience and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the application functionality into two distinct parts: a lightweight web-based interface (HTML operation screen) that can be accessed by any user, and the full-featured installed application that requires power user privileges. This segmentation allows non-power users to access basic functionality through the web interface without compromising system security, while power users retain full control over installation and management of the complete application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If trial version applications are made accessible to non-power users, then user flexibility and satisfaction are improved, but system control and security are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a web server as an intermediary layer between non-power users and the application system. The web server hosts HTML operation screens that provide trial version functionality, allowing users to evaluate applications without direct access to the installation system. This intermediary approach enables user flexibility while maintaining system control, as the web interface can be configured to provide limited functionality without exposing the full installation and execution environment to non-privileged users.
3Ease of operation
If full application functionality is provided without installation, then user accessibility is improved, but application performance and reliability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial action by providing a web-based interface that delivers a subset of the full application's functionality. The HTML operation screen enables users to perform basic tasks and evaluate the application's capabilities without installing the complete software package. This partial implementation achieves the goal of improving accessibility and ease of operation, while the full application remains available for installation by power users who require complete functionality and optimal performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A data processing system includes a data processing apparatus and a server. The server stores a first and second application, the first application to be used by the data processing apparatus after being installed onto the data processing apparatus, the second application corresponding to the first application. The data processing apparatus includes: a display that displays an HTML-based operation screen of the second application on a Web browser, the operation screen being available from the server; and a main body that executes processing. The server includes a processor that offers an API when an instruction to execute processing is given via the operation screen displayed on the display, the API to be used by the second application such that the main body executes processing as instructed. The data processing apparatus further includes a processor that interprets the API and that makes the main body execute processing corresponding to the API.