Modular Login Application for MFP Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for customizing multi-function peripherals (MFPs) require extensive man-hours for development and implementation of complete login functions, limiting flexibility and efficiency in adapting authentication methods and login screens.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus with a management unit for managing login applications and an enabling unit that allows plug-in modules to be added, enabling specific functions such as login screen display and user authentication, while maintaining compatibility with existing customization approaches.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complete set of login functions is implemented for customization, then the login function can be fully customized, but many man-hours for development are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoiddevelopment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The login function is divided into separate modules: a login screen display module and a user authentication module. These modules can be independently selected and combined, allowing customization without implementing a complete set of functions. The system provides a base login application that can be extended with specific modules as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base login application is designed to be universal and can work with multiple types of authentication modules (e.g., IC card reader, vein authentication apparatus). This allows a single base application to support various customization scenarios without requiring separate complete implementations for each case.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple authentication methods and login screen designs are supported, then customization flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication method flexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different authentication methods are implemented as separate plug-in modules that can be independently added to the base login application. This modular approach allows the system to support multiple authentication methods without increasing the complexity of the core application, as each method is encapsulated in its own module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base login application acts as an intermediary that manages and coordinates between different authentication modules and the login screen display. This mediator architecture allows multiple authentication methods to be supported through a unified interface, reducing overall system complexity by centralizing the coordination logic.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9483630B2Information processing apparatus, method of controlling the same and storage medium

Publication Date: 2016.11.01 CANON KK

AI summary

An information processing apparatus, a method of controlling the same, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The information processing apparatus comprises management unit configured to manage a login application at least having both a login screen display function and a user authentication function. The apparatus, in a case where a plug-in module, having one function out of the login screen display function and the user authentication function, is added to the information processing apparatus, enables the function of the plug-in module, and enables the function of the login application other than the function of the plug-in module.