Networked Authentication Control for Multifunctional Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional user authentication systems in multifunctional devices are inflexible, requiring replacement of authentication information input devices and device driver programs, which is time-consuming and costly, and are limited by dedicated operating systems, making it difficult to change authentication methods or update systems.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus and method that allows communication between an imaging apparatus and an authentication information acquisition device via a network interface, enabling the authentication information acquisition device to be controlled remotely and independently of the imaging apparatus, without the need to replace substrates or develop new device driver programs, thus facilitating a flexible authentication system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If authentication information input device is incorporated into multifunctional apparatus, then authentication function is provided, but flexibility to change authentication system is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility to change authentication systemVSAvoidintegration of authentication device into apparatus

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The authentication information input device is separated from the multifunctional apparatus and connected via network interface. This segmentation allows the authentication device to be independently replaced or updated without affecting the main apparatus, thereby improving flexibility while maintaining functional integration through network communication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A network interface acts as an intermediary between the authentication information input device and the multifunctional apparatus. This intermediary enables communication and control while allowing the authentication device to be externally connected and easily replaceable, resolving the contradiction between providing authentication functionality and maintaining system flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If device driver program is changed to support new authentication device, then new authentication method is enabled, but time and cost increase due to disassembly and substrate replacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to support new authentication deviceVSAvoidtime required for device replacement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The authentication information input device is extracted from the internal structure of the multifunctional apparatus and connected externally via network interface. This extraction eliminates the need to disassemble the apparatus or replace substrates when changing authentication devices, significantly reducing the time and cost for updates while maintaining the ability to support new authentication methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The network interface provides a universal connection method that can accommodate different types of authentication information input devices without requiring physical modification of the apparatus. This universal interface enables easy switching between authentication devices and methods without the need for disassembly or substrate replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If special operating system is used for authentication system, then authentication control is achieved, but portability to different systems is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication control capabilityVSAvoidportability to different operating systems

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The network interface serves as an intermediary that enables authentication control through standard network protocols, avoiding the need for a special operating system. This intermediary approach allows the authentication device to be controlled remotely using conventional operating systems and network communication standards, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving portability and system compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8949961B2Control apparatus for communicating with an imaging apparatus and an authentication information acquisition device, communication system, control method, and computer-readable storage medium

Publication Date: 2015.02.03 SHARP KK

AI summary

A communication system includes a multifunctional apparatus, an authentication information input device, an I/F converter, and a control server. The control server includes an authentication information input device driver for controlling the operation of the authentication information input device via the I/F converter over a network and a multifunctional apparatus control section for controlling operation of the multifunctional apparatus. The authentication information input device driver causes the authentication information input device to acquire authentication information from a user, and receives, via the network, the authentication information acquired by the authentication information input device. Moreover, in cases where an authenticating section of the control server performs an authentication process with use of the authentication information and authentication is completed successfully, the multifunctional apparatus control section permits the use of the multifunctional apparatus. This makes it possible to build a flexible authentication system.