Dynamic Time-Based Consumable Authentication for Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatus authentication methods using consumable model, serial number, and remaining amount are insecure and unreliable, leading to potential damage and quality degradation when non-designated consumables are used.
Innovation Solution
A consumable chip with a storage unit and chip control unit that generates and sends a second code based on time information and identity authentication information, allowing the image forming apparatus to verify the consumable's authenticity through a secure communication method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional authentication methods (consumable model, serial number, remaining amount) are used, then the authentication process is simple and stable, but the security and reliability are low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the authentication mechanism from static parameters (model number, serial number) to dynamic parameters (time-based codes). The image forming apparatus and consumable both generate authentication codes based on current time and shared secret information, making the authentication credentials change continuously and resist cracking attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication system transitions from static verification to dynamic verification. Instead of checking fixed identifiers, the system now requires both parties to independently generate matching codes based on current time state, creating a dynamic authentication process that adapts to each authentication attempt.
2Ease of operation
If simple authentication rules are used, then the authentication process is easy to implement, but non-designated consumables can be used causing damage and quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the consumable's generated code is compared against the apparatus's generated code. This mutual verification provides feedback confirmation that the consumable is authenticated, allowing the apparatus to safely proceed with operations without risk of damage from unauthorized consumables.
Solution Approach 2:
The time-based authentication code acts as an intermediary verification mechanism between the apparatus and consumable. Rather than direct trust or simple identifier matching, the shared secret and time-based code generation serve as an intermediary that proves the consumable's legitimacy without exposing sensitive information.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device is configured to communicate with an image forming apparatus that is detachably installed with a consumable. The control device includes a receiving unit configured to receive an authentication request sent by the image forming apparatus, and a first sending unit configured to provide a second code to the image forming apparatus. The second code is obtained by a calculation of a preset algorithm based on second time information and consumable identity authentication information, the second time information being time information determined by the control device or being obtained from the image forming apparatus.