Flexible Authentication Control for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses have rigid and independent authentication systems, leading to redundant system configurations and complex maintenance due to fixed processing between IC cards, external authentication servers, and image forming apparatuses, limiting flexibility in user authentication.
Innovation Solution
An information processor with an authentication control method that includes an authentication part, an information obtaining part, and an authentication control part, utilizing a program module to obtain and process user information from external devices, allowing for flexible authentication functions by dynamically selecting authentication methods and devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed processing is used between IC card, external authentication server, and image forming apparatus, then authentication function is established, but system configuration becomes redundant and maintenance work becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The image forming apparatus is designed to perform multiple authentication functions: it can act as both an authentication server and an authentication terminal. The authentication server can communicate with multiple authentication terminals, creating a universal system that eliminates redundancy while maintaining reliable authentication across different devices and scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the authentication server functionality within the image forming apparatus itself, merging previously separate components (authentication server and authentication terminal) into an integrated system. This reduces system complexity by eliminating redundant independent authentication systems while maintaining comprehensive authentication coverage
2Ease of operation
If external device is limited and fixed, then authentication processing is simplified, but authentication function becomes rigid and less adaptable
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic authentication where the image forming apparatus can flexibly switch between different authentication modes (acting as server or terminal) and communicate with various authentication terminals. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different external devices and authentication scenarios while maintaining simplified processing through standardized protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a standardized communication interface between the authentication server and multiple authentication terminals. This intermediary layer enables the system to work with various external devices (different terminals, authentication methods) without complicating the core authentication processing, achieving both versatility and ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
An information processor is disclosed that includes an authentication part configured to authenticate a user based on predetermined information; an information obtaining part configured to obtain first information to be used to authenticate the user from an external device; and an authentication control part configured to cause the authentication part to authenticate the user by inputting information based on the first information to the authentication part as the predetermined information. The information obtaining part is configured to obtain the first information using a program module whose correlation with the information obtaining part is recorded in a recording medium.