NFC-Enabled Remote User Interface Authentication for Image Formers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The operability of users performing remote operations on image forming apparatuses is decreased due to the need for repeated login selections and password inputs when using Near Field Communication (NFC) for remote user interface (RUI) access, which also affects security and usability.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an NFC control unit, network control unit, and RUI control unit that enables remote operation by matching first and second identification information, allowing automatic login based on pre-registered user authorities and device proximity, thereby streamlining the access process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the user logs in to the administrator mode through the RUI, then security is maintained, but the input of a password is necessary which decreases operability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication by matching the device ID from NFC communication with previously registered device information. This preliminary action establishes trust before the user accesses the RUI, eliminating the need for password input while maintaining security requirements for administrator mode access
2Adaptability or versatility
If the information processing apparatus accesses the RUI through NFC, then remote operation is enabled, but repeated login selections and password inputs are required which decreases operability
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service authentication by automatically verifying the device ID from NFC communication against registered information. This self-service mechanism handles the authentication process without requiring user intervention for login selections or password inputs, thereby maintaining remote operation capability while significantly improving operability
3Reliability
If the system requires password input for administrator mode, then security is ensured, but the authentication process becomes time-consuming which decreases productivity
Solution Approach 1:
Device registration and authentication criteria are established in advance through preliminary action. The system pre-registers device IDs and authentication parameters, enabling rapid automatic verification during subsequent access attempts. This eliminates real-time password input while maintaining security standards, thereby significantly improving authentication speed and overall productivity
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an NFC control unit that performs proximity wireless communication with an information processing apparatus, a network control unit that performs communication with the information processing apparatus through a network, and an RUI control unit that accepts remote operation from the information processing apparatus. When a unique ID of an NFC tag of the information processing apparatus acquired by the NFC control unit, and an IP address of the information processing apparatus acquired by the network control unit identify the same information processing apparatus, the RUI control unit performs control so as to enable remote operation by the external device.