Workflow Processing via Image Association on Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional techniques fail to link the image addition function and workflow function, requiring manual notification for approving data and lack control over processing based on added images.

Innovation Solution

An information processing system with a terminal and file server that allows image association with workflow processing, enabling automatic execution of predefined actions when an image is added to data, such as saving, printing, or deleting, through a communication and execution unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual notification methods (instant message, e-mail) are used to inform others of data approval, then information can be communicated, but the process requires manual intervention and is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual notification processVSAvoiddata approval efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the image addition function with the workflow function into an integrated system. When an image (stamp) is added to data, the system automatically executes predefined workflow processing and notifies other users, eliminating the need for separate manual notification actions and streamlining the approval process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically performs workflow processing and user notification when an image is added to data. The notification system self-triggers based on the image addition event, eliminating manual intervention and improving efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If image addition function and workflow function are kept separate, then each function can operate independently, but they fail to link and require manual coordination

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction independenceVSAvoidsystem integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the image addition function and workflow function into a unified system where image addition triggers automated workflow processing. This integration maintains the versatility of independent functions while eliminating the complexity of manual coordination through automated linking

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If automatic workflow processing is implemented, then efficiency is improved, but control over processing based on added images is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidprocessing control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows users to pre-configure workflow processing rules and settings in advance. When an image is added to data, the pre-configured workflow automatically executes with appropriate control, balancing efficiency with user oversight through predetermined parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9940083B2Information processing system and method to execute a workflow processing corresponding to an image
Publication Date: 2018.04.10 RICOH CO LTD
  • US9940083B2 patent drawing
  • US9940083B2 patent drawing
  • US9940083B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing system includes: a terminal; and a file server. The terminal includes: a first communication unit configured to receive data from the file server; a display unit configured to display the data; and an editing unit configured to add an image associated with workflow processing, to the data. The first communication unit is further configured to transmit the data to which the image is added, to the file server. The file server includes: a second communication unit configured to transmit the data to the terminal and receive the data to which the image is added, from the terminal; and an executing unit configured to execute the workflow processing associated with the image.