NFC Tag Operation Control in Printing Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing printing apparatuses with NFC reader/writers often erroneously read NFC tags due to proximity, leading to improper authentication operations.

Innovation Solution

A printing apparatus with a card reader, NFC tag, and processor that determines the operation method of the NFC tag based on whether the card reader reads the tag, allowing for controlled RF operations to prevent erroneous readings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the NFC reader/writer is placed in proximity to the NFC tag for authentication, then authentication function is enabled, but erroneous reading of the NFC tag occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication accuracyVSAvoiderroneous reading

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The NFC tag dynamically changes its operation mode based on detection results. When the card reader detects the NFC tag, the NFC tag switches to a non-operational state to prevent erroneous reading. When not detected, it switches to an operational state for normal NFC functions, creating a dynamic adaptation to resolve the contradiction between authentication reliability and preventing erroneous reading

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the card reader continuously monitors for the presence of the NFC tag and provides this information to the NFC tag controller. Based on this feedback, the NFC tag adjusts its operational state accordingly, ensuring that authentication accuracy is maintained while preventing harmful erroneous readings

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If the NFC reader/writer reads the NFC tag for authentication, then user authentication is performed, but pairing operation cannot be properly executed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication functionVSAvoidpairing operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The NFC tag operates in dynamic modes: when the card reader is actively reading for authentication, the NFC tag remains inactive to prevent interference. When authentication is complete or not occurring, the NFC tag becomes active to enable pairing operations, thus dynamically resolving the conflict between authentication reliability and pairing ease

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs periodic switching between authentication mode and pairing mode. During authentication periods, the NFC tag is inactive. During non-authentication periods, the NFC tag is active for pairing, creating a periodic action pattern that ensures both authentication reliability and pairing functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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

Enables accurate user authentication and pairing by selectively permitting or stopping NFC tag readings, preventing false authentication and ensuring proper operation.

Implementation Method 1

If an NFC reader/writer for use in authentication is placed in proximity to an NFC tag, the NFC reader/writer can erroneously read the NFC tag

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10178276B2Printing apparatus including NFC tag, method related thereto, and storage medium

Publication Date: 2019.01.08 CANON KK

AI summary

A printing apparatus includes a card reader that reads a card for user authentication, a near field communication (NFC) tag, a memory that stores instructions, and a processor that executes the instructions to determine whether the card reader reads the NFC tag and determine, based on a result of the determination, an operation method of the NFC tag.