Dynamic Function Restriction for Multi-Function Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing function restrictions in multi-function image forming apparatuses are inefficient as they rely on time-based schedules, failing to account for the operational states of connected host computers, leading to potential unauthorized use or lax security.
Innovation Solution
A device and computer program that detect the operational states of host computers and restrict functions accordingly, enabling or disabling function restrictions based on the number of users or network traffic to enhance security and prevent unauthorized use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If function restriction is managed based on time period, then security management is simplified and automated, but security effectiveness deteriorates because restrictions are applied regardless of actual user presence or operational needs
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring operational states of host computers and using this information to dynamically adjust function restrictions. The monitoring unit detects whether host computers are operating normally, and this feedback is fed back to the restriction control unit which adjusts restrictions accordingly - maintaining strict restrictions when computers are non-operational and relaxing them when computers are operational, thus achieving both automation and security effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static time-based restrictions to dynamic state-based restrictions. Instead of applying fixed restrictions during scheduled periods, the system continuously adapts restriction levels based on real-time operational states of connected host computers, making the security management both automated and context-aware
2Ease of operation
If function restriction is canceled when few users are present, then ease of use is improved, but security deteriorates due to increased risk of unauthorized use
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the monitoring unit that detects operational states of host computers to dynamically adjust restriction levels. When host computers are detected as non-operational, the system maintains strict function restrictions to prevent unauthorized use. When computers are operational, restrictions are relaxed to improve ease of use, thus balancing security and convenience based on real-time conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of restriction level dynamically based on detected operational states. Instead of maintaining a fixed restriction level, the system adjusts the restriction parameter according to whether host computers are operational or not, achieving adaptive security management that responds to changing conditions
3Reliability
If function restriction is executed when many users are present, then security is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to unnecessary restrictions on legitimate users
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring unit provides feedback on the operational states of host computers to the restriction control unit. When multiple host computers are detected as operational, the system interprets this as legitimate user presence and automatically relaxes function restrictions, thereby maintaining security when needed while improving operational convenience when legitimate users are present
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts restriction levels based on the number and operational state of connected host computers. Instead of applying uniform restrictions, the system adapts restriction intensity to match the actual usage scenario - maintaining strict restrictions when computers are non-operational and relaxing them when multiple computers are operational, thus optimizing both security and convenience
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a computer readable medium having a computer program stored thereon are provided. The device includes: a detecting unit configured to detect one or more host computers accessible from the device and operational states of the respective host computers; and a restricting unit configured to restrict a function of the device based on the operational states of the host computers detected by the detecting unit.