Centralized Printer License Distribution for Easier Function Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printers require each user to separately purchase a license for specific functions, making it difficult to change function settings and deterring users from purchasing licenses.
Innovation Solution
A license management system comprising a digital multi-functional peripheral that manages licenses for multiple printers, acquiring and distributing licenses from a management server, and enabling efficient license management and distribution across multiple printers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If each separate user purchases a license separately to use a specific function, then the function can be used by that user, but it becomes difficult to change to a function for which a license has been set and users are hesitant to purchase licenses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a license management server as an intermediary between users and the printing device. This server handles license issuance, validation, and management centrally, eliminating the need for each user to separately purchase and manage licenses. The server acts as a mediator that simplifies the interaction between multiple users and the device's licensing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The license management server provides universal license management capabilities for multiple users and multiple functions. Instead of individual license management for each user, the server offers a unified system that can manage various types of licenses (e.g., resolution changes, color printing) for multiple users, making the system more adaptable and easier to operate.
2Productivity
If a license is required for specific functions like high-resolution printing, then the function can be controlled and monetized, but users are deterred from purchasing licenses due to the separate purchase requirement for each user
Solution Approach 1:
The license management server serves as an intermediary that streamlines the license acquisition process. It handles license issuance, validation, and distribution centrally, making it convenient for users to access licensed functions without separate purchases. The server automates license management tasks, improving both productivity and user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service license management where users can automatically obtain and manage their licenses through the server without manual intervention. The server automatically validates licenses, manages expiration, and handles renewals, reducing the operational burden on users and improving overall system efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a license management device and system are provided to facilitate management of a license for a printing device. The license management device includes a first communication interface, a second communication interface, a memory, and a processor. The first communication interface communicates with a management server. The second communication interface communicates with the printing device that has a specific function whose use may be license-restricted but permitted by a license issued by the management server. The memory stores a license management table that stores the license issued by the management server through the first communication interface. The processor provides the printing device with the license stored in the license management table in response to a request from the printing device through the second communication interface.