Human-Body Communication Authentication for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user authentication methods for multi-function peripherals (MFPs) are cumbersome, require multiple reading devices, and fail to provide function-specific authentication, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a human-body communication unit that reads user information from a portable device via electrodes on the input unit, allowing function-specific authentication by referencing stored authentication information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If password input method is used for user authentication, then authentication can be performed, but users are required to input a password every time which is very cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The user's portable device stores authentication information in advance, and the MFP reads this information automatically when the user touches the operation panel. This preliminary preparation of authentication data eliminates the need for users to manually input passwords each time, resolving the contradiction between authentication reliability and operation convenience.
2Reliability
If magnetic card or memory unit mounting method is used, then user authentication can be performed, but it is necessary to provide the same number of reading devices as the number of users which complicates the structure and increases the cost
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP uses a single reading device that can read authentication information from any user's portable device through human-body communication. This universal reading device replaces the need for multiple dedicated reading devices, one for each user, thereby simplifying the system structure and reducing costs while maintaining authentication capability.
3Reliability
If storage medium capable of wireless communication is used, then user authentication can be performed, but it is impossible to identify which user has generated the command when a plurality of storage media exist within the same communication area
Solution Approach 1:
The user's body serves as an intermediary medium between the portable device and the MFP's reading device. The reading device reads authentication information through the user's body via human-body communication, establishing a direct one-to-one connection that accurately identifies which user generated the command, even when multiple portable devices are present in the communication area.
4Adaptability or versatility
If function-specific authentication is implemented, then proper function access control can be provided, but existing methods do not satisfy the needs for user authentication on a function-by-function basis
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP stores authentication information with local quality, meaning different authentication levels are assigned to different functions. The system reads the user's portable device information and grants access to specific functions based on the stored authentication data, enabling function-by-function access control while maintaining authentication effectiveness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables seamless, function-specific authentication without bothering users, reducing the need for multiple reading devices and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a human body of a user as a transmission medium, reads user information from a portable device worn by the user
Data Source
AI summary
When a key input unit or a touch panel is pressed, a control unit identifies the commanded function. Then, the control unit causes a human-body communication unit to start processing for establishing human-body communication with a portable device worn by a user. On receiving user information from the portable device, the control unit makes reference to an authentication table and determines whether or not there is an entry for the received user information therein. Further, the control unit determines whether or not use of the identified function, out of the functions corresponding to the received user information, is allowed. The control unit performs display on the touch panel, according to the result of the determination.