Authentication Device Database Collation for Printer License Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing authentication methods for applications on image forming devices, such as multi-function printers, often require cumbersome legal verification processes and lack effective mechanisms to prevent illegal acquisition and usage, especially when software license authentication is involved.
Innovation Solution
An authentication device that collates specific information of an application and an image forming device with a database to output an authentication result, allowing for secure installation only when verification is completed, and managing license authentication information centrally to prevent misuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software license authentication is performed using existing methods, then the application can be installed on the image forming device, but the process becomes cumbersome and vulnerable to illegal acquisition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication information from the application installer and stores it separately in a database on the authentication device. When installation is requested, the system retrieves and verifies the authentication information from the database without including it in the application package, thereby preventing illegal acquisition while maintaining secure authentication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an authentication device as an intermediary between the terminal device and the image forming device. This intermediary verifies authentication information by collating application-specific information with database records, providing a secure verification process that simplifies the overall installation workflow while maintaining high security standards
2Productivity
If authentication information is stored on the terminal device or image forming device, then verification can be performed locally, but the risk of illegal access and misuse increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts authentication information from local storage on terminal or image forming devices and centralizes it in a secure database on the authentication device. This extraction eliminates the security vulnerability of local storage while enabling rapid verification through efficient database retrieval and collation processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent shifts the storage dimension from local device storage (2D: device memory) to centralized cloud-based database storage (3D: networked database system). This dimensional change enables both high-speed access through networked database operations and enhanced security through centralized control and access management
3Reliability
If detailed authentication verification is performed, then the security against illegal usage is improved, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service authentication system where the authentication device automatically performs verification by collating application-specific information with database records. This automated self-verification process ensures high accuracy in license validation while keeping the system simple for users, as no manual intervention or complex configuration is required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal authentication framework that handles multiple authentication scenarios (new installation, reinstallation, license verification) through a single collation process. The authentication device serves multiple functions including verification, validation, and authorization management, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive security
Data Source
AI summary
An authentication device includes an input unit that inputs specific information of an application to be installed and specific information of an image forming device which is an installation destination, and a controller that collates the specific information of the application and the specific information of the image forming device with a database to output an authentication result indicating that authentication has been performed or has not been performed.