NFC Printer Configuration via Tag Segmentation and Proximity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless network protocols for printers, such as 802.11, face challenges in scenarios with multiple devices in proximity, making it difficult to access the correct printer without knowing its network address, and are impractical for initial setup and configuration, especially during maintenance operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing near-field communication (NFC) technology to generate an NFC field, read data from an NFC tag associated with the printer, and determine the source of configuration values based on the read-only status of the tag, either using the tag or a remote database, to facilitate printer configuration and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If wireless network protocols (802.11) are used for printer communication, then communication range and data transmission capability are improved, but device identification and access become difficult when multiple devices are in proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication process into two distinct phases: (1) NFC-based device identification and pairing at close proximity, and (2) Wi-Fi-based data transmission at longer range. This segmentation allows each protocol to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between transmission capability and ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The NFC tag acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between physical proximity and network communication. It provides a simple tap-based mechanism for device identification and pairing, which then enables subsequent Wi-Fi communication without requiring users to manually configure network settings or remember device addresses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network protocols are used for printer configuration, then remote access capability is improved, but initial setup becomes impractical when local network access is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the NFC tag with device identification information and configuration data before the printer is deployed. This allows the initial setup to occur through simple NFC tapping without requiring network connectivity, after which remote access capabilities can be established.
Solution Approach 2:
The NFC tag enables self-service configuration where the device automatically provides its own identification and configuration information through the tap interface. This eliminates the need for manual network configuration or technician intervention during initial setup, while still enabling remote access functionality.
3Ease of operation
If NFC tag data is always readable, then configuration access is simplified, but security and data protection are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing different access rights for different sectors of the NFC tag. Certain sectors are marked as read-only to protect critical configuration data, while other sectors allow read-write access for flexible configuration. This sector-based differentiation resolves the contradiction between ease of access and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the accessibility parameter of NFC tag sectors based on their function. By setting specific sectors as read-only through status word programming, the system maintains security for critical data while allowing read access for configuration purposes, thus resolving the contradiction between accessibility and protection.
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
NFC technology ensures secure and efficient communication by ensuring proximity to the correct device, simplifying printer configuration and maintenance by providing network information and enabling secure access, while reducing the complexity of initial setup and configuration processes.
Implementation Method 1
Typically this involves one device, often called a reader, which generates an electromagnetic radio field.
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic field created by the reader causes an electrical signal to be inducted in the tag.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure provide systems, methods, and apparatuses for leveraging near field communications (NFC) in conjunction with printer devices. Examples of the disclosure provide for novel methods of interfacing with printers configured to use near field communications using NFC enabled readers and output media. Examples include using a smart phone to access data stored on an NFC tag associated with the printer. The data provided by the NFC tag may include printer status information, printer configuration information, network information, or other data relating to operation and maintenance of the printer. The printer may also encode the NFC tag dynamically, including encoding data to NFC tags included on print media. The printer may encode an NFC tag associated with media with a variety of information in support of various use cases.