Mobile Phone Access Control for MFDs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Point of Sale (POS) terminals for Multi-Function Devices (MFDs) are expensive, have high overhead, and are limited in availability due to their hardware-based nature, restricting access and supporting only standard usage, while not accommodating non-standard or ad-hoc usage effectively.
Innovation Solution
A software-based virtual vend system utilizing wireless devices like mobile phones and a remote vend application server connected via HTTPS, enabling access to MFDs without additional hardware, allowing for widespread availability and supporting ad-hoc usage through Interactive Voice Response Systems and web-based account management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardware-based POS terminals are used for access control and charging, then access control functionality is provided, but device cost and administrative overhead increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hardware-based POS terminals with a software-based system using mobile phones as access mechanisms. The mechanical/hardware access control system is substituted with a software application that communicates via wireless networks, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware terminals while maintaining access control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile phone serves multiple functions: it acts as an access mechanism for authentication, a communication device for interacting with the MFD, and a platform for running the vend application. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated hardware terminals, reducing overall system complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If hardware-based POS terminals are deployed, then access control is enabled, but availability and ease of setup are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical deployment process of hardware terminals with software installation on mobile phones. Software can be distributed and installed remotely without physical hardware deployment, significantly easing system expansion and setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service account setup and management through the mobile phone interface. Users can independently register, manage their accounts, and access MFDs without requiring administrative intervention or hardware configuration, simplifying deployment and reducing training requirements.
3Ease of operation
If standard vend devices are used, then account-based control is provided, but support for non-standard and ad-hoc usage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to different usage scenarios through software configuration rather than fixed hardware functionality. The mobile phone application can adjust its behavior based on user needs, supporting both standard account-based access and ad-hoc usage patterns without requiring different hardware devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters through software settings rather than hardware reconfiguration. Usage rights, account types, and access permissions can be modified dynamically through the software platform, enabling flexible support for various usage scenarios including non-standard and ad-hoc access patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
Use of wireless technology to enable Point of Sale (POS) vending for Multi-Function Devices (MFDs) is disclosed. A user can enable the MFD through the Internet by calling or accessing a centralized server. The user can access a previously existing account or establish a new account. Also, one time use of the MFD can be enabled by entering credit or debit card information. Previously existing accounts can be recognized by the caller's phone number or other mechanism. Individual MFDs can be recognized by Global Positioning System (GPS), an access number, or by entering the MFD identification number. The server can transfer billing information, MFD or account restrictions, and available balance to the user. The MFD prevents users from overdrawing their account or from running prohibited jobs. Charges incurred are transmitted back to the server for account maintenance.