Mobile Payment Integration for Self-Service Multi-Function Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-service multi-function printers require additional hardware and a clerk for point of sale (POS) payment solutions, which are costly and inconvenient for users, as they often need specific payment types or amounts.
Innovation Solution
A system integrating a self-service multi-function printer (MFP), a mobile device, and a management and accounting server, where the MFP displays a session prepayment code that users can scan or enter into their mobile device, allowing online payment through the device, generating a use authorization code for accessing MFP functions without the need for additional hardware or clerks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional POS payment hardware and clerks are used for self-service multi-function printers, then payment processing can be performed, but the system complexity and operational costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical payment hardware with a digital copy of the payment interface embedded in the MFP's display. The MFP displays a payment interface that replicates the functionality of traditional POS terminals, allowing users to complete transactions directly on the device without external payment hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The MFP autonomously handles the entire payment process without requiring external clerks or separate payment terminals. The device displays payment interfaces, processes user input, communicates with payment gateways, and completes transactions independently, transforming a service that required human operators into a fully automated self-service system.
2Reliability
If traditional POS payment systems with specific hardware are deployed, then payment security can be maintained, but the ease of operation for users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP's display serves multiple functions: it acts as both the document service interface and the payment terminal. The same touchscreen display that users interact with for printing, copying, and scanning also displays payment interfaces, eliminating the need for separate payment hardware and providing a unified, convenient user experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The MFP's display interface acts as an intermediary between the user and the payment gateway. It presents payment options in a user-friendly format, captures payment information securely, and communicates with external payment processors, thereby maintaining security while improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If additional POS hardware is installed for payment processing, then payment functionality is enabled, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the payment processing functionality with the existing MFP hardware and software. The payment interface is integrated into the MFP's display system, and the processor that controls document services also handles payment operations, eliminating the need for separate payment terminals and reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The MFP is designed to perform multiple functions including document services and payment processing using the same hardware components. The display, processor, and communication interfaces are used for both document operations and payment transactions, maximizing resource utilization and eliminating redundant hardware costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method incorporating a multi-function printer (MFP), a mobile device and a server to effect payment of MFP services. The MFP generates and displays a session prepayment code containing identification information for the MFP and for a specific session initiated by a user. The code is entered into the mobile device and the mobile device transmits it to the server. In response, the server transmits a menu of MFP functions and costs to the mobile device, allowing the user to estimate and prepay the cost of the specific session through a service accessible on the mobile device. Once proof of prepayment is received, the server transmits an authorization code to the mobile device and the user inputs it into the MFP. The MFP verifies the authorization code with the server and performs user-selected functions until a time allotted for the specific session ends or until available credit is used, whichever comes first.