Wireless Data Transfer System with Dynamic Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing data transfer methods via wireless communication require complex user operations and do not allow users to selectively transfer image data files, leading to poor usability.

Innovation Solution

A data communication system that uses short-range wireless transfer techniques to enable users to select and transfer image data files by controlling the connection and disconnection of wireless communication between devices, allowing for simple operation and selection of next or previous image files based on connection status and timer settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If automatic transfer of multiple image data files is performed upon establishment of wireless communication, then usability for the user is improved by reducing operations, but the user cannot select image data files to be transferred

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser operation simplicityVSAvoidfile selection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between two transfer modes: automatic transfer mode (for simplicity) and selective transfer mode (for user control). The system dynamically adapts its behavior based on user input received after wireless communication establishment, allowing the transfer mechanism to transition from fully automatic to user-selective operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary establishment of wireless communication and preliminary display of thumbnail images before the actual data transfer begins. This preliminary action allows users to preview available image files and make informed selection decisions before the transfer process starts, combining automation with user control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If all image data files are transferred automatically upon wireless communication establishment, then the transfer process is simplified, but the user loses control over which files are transferred

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer process complexityVSAvoiduser control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where thumbnail images of stored image data files are displayed to the user after wireless communication is established. This feedback allows users to see what files are available for transfer and make informed decisions about which files to select, creating a loop between system action and user response.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of transferring all image files automatically (excessive action) or requiring full manual selection (complete complexity), the patent implements partial action by allowing users to select specific files from a displayed list. This partial selection approach reduces complexity while maintaining user control for those who need it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Speed

If short-range wireless transfer techniques are used for data transfer, then communication range is limited, but transfer speed and simplicity are improved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidcommunication range
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic connection establishment and automatic thumbnail display functionality that operates without user intervention. Once devices are brought into proximity, the system automatically establishes wireless communication, retrieves available image files, and displays thumbnails for user selection, making the system self-serve the user throughout the process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2294702B1Data supplying apparatus, data processing apparatus and data communication system
Publication Date: 2016.12.21 CANON KK
  • EP2294702B1 patent drawing
  • EP2294702B1 patent drawing
  • EP2294702B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A data supplying apparatus detects a change in the status of the wireless connection established with an external apparatus. When the status of the wireless connection is restored after a change has been detected in the status of the wireless connection, the data supplying apparatus transmits, to the external apparatus, a different data file from the previous data file transmitted by the wireless connection before restoration of the connection.