Workflow Creating Unit for Conditional Function Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices lack the capability to efficiently create and manage complex workflows that combine multiple functions with conditional execution logic, leading to inflexible and inefficient operation sequences.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device, such as a Multifunction Peripheral (MFP), is equipped with a function accepting unit, an execution condition accepting unit, and a workflow creating unit, allowing it to create workflows that include start, branch, and continuation conditions, enabling the sequential and conditional execution of various functions like copying, transmitting, and maintenance tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electronic devices execute functions in fixed sequences, then operational simplicity is maintained, but operational flexibility and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic workflow execution where the sequence and execution of functions are not fixed but can change based on conditional judgments. The workflow creation unit generates execution sequences that adapt to different conditions, allowing the system to transition from static to dynamic operation modes, thereby improving operational flexibility without permanently increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of execution sequence from fixed to variable by introducing conditional branches. Different execution paths are defined based on judgment results, allowing the system to select appropriate function sequences dynamically. This parameter change enables flexible operation while maintaining manageable complexity through structured conditional logic.
2Productivity
If all functions are executed sequentially without conditions, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the workflow into distinct functional units with defined execution conditions. By dividing the overall process into separable function blocks that can be independently evaluated and executed based on conditions, the system achieves higher productivity through selective execution while maintaining operational simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary judgment actions before function execution to determine which functions should be executed. By evaluating conditions in advance and pre-defining execution paths, the system avoids unnecessary function executions, thereby improving productivity while keeping the operational logic clear and manageable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conditional execution logic is added to workflows, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal workflow creation unit that can handle multiple function types and condition kinds through a unified framework. This multi-functional approach allows the system to manage diverse conditional execution scenarios using a single standardized mechanism, thereby improving adaptability while controlling complexity through reuse and standardization.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a function accepting unit, an execution condition accepting unit, and a workflow creating unit. The function accepting unit accepts functions. The execution condition accepting unit accepts at least one execution condition of the functions. The workflow creating unit creates a workflow combining a plurality of functions. The workflow creating unit creates the workflow including the functions and the execution condition. The functions are accepted by the function accepting unit. The execution condition is accepted by the execution condition accepting unit. The execution condition accepting unit accepts a continuation condition as at least one of the execution condition, the continuation condition for starting execution of a subsequent function after termination of execution of the function immediately before without selecting the subsequent function.