Cloud Print Job Transmission via Mobile Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cloud print services face challenges in usability and security, particularly when using smaller image forming apparatuses installed in homes or shared offices, where operations related to printing jobs are difficult due to the absence or limited functionality of operation panels, and there is a need for improved security due to diverse installation locations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a printing apparatus, a first terminal, and a second terminal, where the first terminal transmits a printing job to the printing apparatus, the second terminal receives inputted predetermined information based on the transmission and requests the printing apparatus to execute printing, and the printing apparatus executes printing based on the request.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If image forming apparatus with small or no operation panel are used for out-of-company printing, then adaptability to diverse installation locations is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A mobile terminal acts as an intermediary between the user and the image forming apparatus. The terminal receives printing job transmission requests, manages authentication, and communicates with the apparatus, thereby eliminating the need for a complex operation panel on the apparatus itself while maintaining full operational capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cloud print service allows registration of image forming apparatus outside company management, then adaptability to remote work is improved, but security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Authentication information is registered and stored in advance in the mobile terminal before actual printing operations. This preliminary authentication setup enables secure access control to be maintained even when the image forming apparatus is located outside company premises, as the terminal already possesses the necessary credentials.
3Device complexity
If operation panel is reduced or eliminated in image forming apparatus, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile terminal serves as an external operation interface, handling all user interactions including printing job transmission requests and authentication inputs. This transfers the operational complexity from the image forming apparatus to the terminal, allowing the apparatus to be simplified while maintaining full functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including a printing apparatus, a first terminal, and a second terminal, wherein the first terminal includes a first transmission unit configured to transmit a printing job for causing the printing apparatus to execute printing, the second terminal includes a reception unit configured to receive inputting of predetermined information generated based on the transmission of the printing job by the first terminal, and a second transmission unit configured to transmit, based on the reception of inputting of the predetermined information, a request for causing the printing apparatus to execute printing based on the printing job transmitted by the first terminal, and the printing apparatus includes a printing unit configured to execute, based on the transmission of the request, printing based on the printing job transmitted by the first terminal.