Workflow Import Across Image Processing Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional control programs do not facilitate the importation of workflow information created outside an information processing device, limiting its application to image processing devices other than the target device.

Innovation Solution

A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium for an information processing device, equipped with a communication interface and memory, allows for the selection and importation of workflow information associated with different image processing devices, enabling the use of workflow information across various image processing devices by including device identification information and permitting different model import permissions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If workflow information is created only within the information processing device, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates because workflows cannot be applied to different image processing devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkflow applicabilityVSAvoidimport function complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The information processing device is enhanced with universal import functionality that allows workflow information to be applied across multiple image processing device types. The device can read and interpret workflow files created for different device models, not just its own model, making it multi-functional in terms of workflow compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

A workflow file serves as an intermediary data structure that carries workflow information between different image processing devices. This file acts as a mediator that enables transfer of processing parameters and settings across device boundaries without requiring direct device-to-device communication or complex integration protocols.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If workflow information is imported from external sources, then adaptability improves, but reliability deteriorates due to potential compatibility issues with different device models

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkflow import capabilityVSAvoidworkflow compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device performs capability checking that provides feedback on whether the imported workflow is compatible with the target device. The system reads device capability information and compares it with the workflow requirements, providing feedback on compatibility status and preventing execution of incompatible workflows that would cause errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary capability verification before executing the imported workflow. By checking device capabilities in advance against workflow requirements, the system prevents compatibility issues from occurring during workflow execution, effectively countening potential errors before they can manifest.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Manufacturing precision

If device identification information is stored with workflow information, then manufacturing precision is improved for device-specific workflows, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional selection steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice-specific workflow accuracyVSAvoidworkflow selection process

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The imported workflow file contains embedded device identification information that enables self-service device matching. When a workflow is imported, the system automatically reads the device ID from the workflow file and compares it with the target device's ID, automatically determining compatibility without requiring manual user assessment or complex selection procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11627231B2Information processing device, and non- transitory computer-readable recording medium therefor

Publication Date: 2023.04.11 BROTHER KOGYO KK

AI summary

A computer of an information processing device performs selecting an image processing device of the one or more image processing devices. Further, when one or more pieces of workflow information defining various settings and various processes with respect to the image processing devices are stored in a storage area accessible by the computer, the one or more pieces of workflow information being associated with device identification information identifying a target image processing device subjected to the various settings and the various processes, the computer reads workflow information associated with the device identification information identifying the target image processing device which is different from the image processing device selected in the selecting, and imports the read workflow information in a workflow information storage area of the memory.