Network Access Configuration via IC Card Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network setting systems for image forming apparatuses, such as MFPs, face difficulties in updating transmission destination information when IP addresses or network configurations change, leading to communication failures due to inability to obtain MAC addresses of devices in different subnetworks and set matching network settings.
Innovation Solution
An access information setting system that uses an IC card to write and read access information, including IP addresses, authentication methods, and network settings, allowing the image forming apparatus to set network settings for accessing a PC terminal even when they belong to different subnetworks, using a lending server for temporary address borrowing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If broadcasting is used to obtain MAC address and IP address, then the method is simple, but it cannot obtain MAC address of devices in different subnetworks or when filters are added
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a terminal device as an intermediary that bridges the MFP and the PC. The terminal device obtains access information (including MAC address, IP address, authentication methods, and network settings) from the PC and transmits this information to the MFP. This intermediary approach allows the system to overcome subnetwork barriers and filter restrictions that would prevent direct communication between the MFP and PC.
2Adaptability or versatility
If IP address is changed, then the system can follow the change, but network settings such as authentication method and net mask cannot be updated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the terminal device obtain all necessary access information (MAC address, IP address, authentication methods, and network settings) from the PC before transmission to the MFP. This advance preparation ensures that when the MFP needs to communicate with the PC, all required parameters are already configured, including authentication methods and net mask settings, not just the IP address.
3Measurement precision
If transmission destination information is reset manually, then accuracy is maintained, but time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the terminal device to automatically obtain access information from the PC and transmit it to the MFP without requiring manual intervention. The system automatically updates transmission destination information including MAC address, IP address, authentication methods, and network settings, eliminating the need for manual resetting while maintaining accuracy.
4Device complexity
If network settings are not updated, then device complexity is reduced, but communication fails when network configuration changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the network setting system adaptable and flexible. The terminal device dynamically obtains updated access information from the PC when needed and transmits it to the MFP. This allows the system to automatically adjust to network configuration changes (such as authentication method changes or net mask changes) without requiring complex manual reconfiguration, maintaining both simplicity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An access information setting system includes: a data reception device; a data transmission device that transmits data to the data reception device via a network; and a writing device that writes access information for accessing to the data reception device via the network, in a storing medium. The data transmission device obtains the access information written in the storing medium, and sets a network setting for accessing to the data reception device in accordance with the access information as one network setting which can be used by the data transmission device.