NFC Authentication Logic for MFP Session Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses, such as multi-function peripherals (MFPs), often unintentionally log out users due to unintended proximity of IC cards to the IC card reader, leading to inconvenient interruptions in operation.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus with a wireless communication interface and memory systems that manage user authentication and operation modes, allowing intentional login and logout processes while preventing unintended mode switches by verifying IC card presence and user intent through specific screen displays and NFC communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the IC card reader automatically detects IC cards and switches operation modes, then user login convenience is improved, but unintended logouts occur when IC cards are accidentally placed nearby
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by displaying a login screen before enabling automatic login mode switching. This ensures the user is ready for login operations before the system automatically detects an IC card and switches modes, preventing unintended logouts during other operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by displaying the login screen to inform users of the current operation mode and requiring explicit user input to confirm login intent. This feedback mechanism allows users to control when automatic login occurs, preventing accidental mode switches.
2Speed
If the system automatically switches to login mode when an IC card is detected, then authentication speed is improved, but user intent is not verified leading to unintended logouts
Solution Approach 1:
The login screen is displayed as a preliminary action before automatic login execution. This allows the system to prepare the user for the upcoming login operation and verify intent before automatically processing the IC card authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system requires the user to actively engage with the login screen by pressing a button to confirm login intent. This self-service approach ensures the user consciously initiates the login process rather than being passively subjected to automatic mode switching.
3Productivity
If automatic mode switching is enabled for IC card detection, then operational efficiency is improved, but unintended operations occur during image processing
Solution Approach 1:
The system displays the login screen as a preliminary action before enabling automatic login mode switching. This ensures that the user is prepared for login operations before the system automatically detects an IC card and switches modes, preventing unintended logouts during other operations such as image processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The login screen provides visual feedback to the user about the current operation mode and requires explicit confirmation to proceed with automatic login. This feedback mechanism prevents unintended mode switching during image processing or other operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Prevents unintended logouts and maintains user sessions by accurately determining user intent through NFC communication and screen state management, enhancing user experience and operational convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless communication interface configured to perform wireless communication with a noncontact storage medium located within a particular distance
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus performs: in a case where an operating mode is a second mode when identification information receiving process is executed, determining whether a first memory stores first identification information corresponding to second identification information; in response to determining that the first memory stores the first identification information, determining whether a second memory stores third identification information corresponding to the second identification information; in response to determining that the second memory stores the third identification information, determining whether a first screen is displayed; in response to determining that the first screen is displayed, executing a first logout process of switching the operating mode from the second mode to the first mode and deleting the third identification information stored in the second memory; in response to determining that the first screen is not displayed, maintaining the operating mode in the second mode without executing the first logout process.