Embedded Memory in Toner Cartridge Housing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing print apparatuses lack a secure and reliable method to authenticate and track print material attributes, such as type, quantity, and characteristics, which can lead to counterfeiting and inefficient operation due to the absence of embedded memory resources in print material containers.

Innovation Solution

Embedding a memory resource within the housing of print material containers, protected by the container's structure, with electrical leads for secure data retrieval, allowing the print apparatus to authenticate and track print material attributes without external tampering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If no memory resource is embedded in the print material container, then the container structure remains simple and manufacturing is easier, but the print apparatus cannot authenticate or track print material attributes leading to counterfeiting and inefficient operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication of print material attributesVSAvoidcontainer structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the memory resource with the container structure by embedding the memory resource within the container housing. This integration combines the storage function with the structural housing, eliminating the need for separate external memory components while enabling authentication and tracking capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The memory resource is nested within the container housing structure. The housing contains and protects the memory resource, creating a nested configuration where the smaller memory component is embedded within the larger container structure, providing both protection and integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If the memory resource is exposed on the container exterior, then data retrieval is easier, but the memory resource becomes vulnerable to external tampering and counterfeiting

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection against tamperingVSAvoiddata retrieval

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (contactless communication interface) between the external reader and the embedded memory resource. This intermediary enables data retrieval without direct physical access to the memory resource, maintaining security while allowing legitimate communication through electromagnetic fields or similar contactless methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11163245B2Embedded memory resources

Publication Date: 2021.11.02 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP

AI summary

In an example, a container includes a housing with a memory resource embedded therein, an electrical contact coupled to an exterior of the container, and an electrical lead coupled to the memory resource and the electrical contact. In another example, a toner cartridge includes a controller embedded within a material of a housing and an electrical contact on an exterior surface of the housing and electrically coupled to the controller. In an example method of manufacturing a container, a memory resource is placed in a mold, material is injected into the mold such that the memory resource is embedded in the material, and the material is allowed to solidify.