Offline Contract Unlock for Image Forming System Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing systems cannot release a use-prohibited state when not connected to the Internet, preventing continued use after a usage contract period expires.
Innovation Solution
The system outputs inquiry information as printed material containing identification information, which is encrypted and converted into a special pattern readable only by specific devices, allowing offline release of the use-prohibited state through a connected device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the system requires Internet connection to release the use-prohibited state, then the usage control security is improved, but the system usability deteriorates when Internet connectivity is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by storing inquiry information and release instruction information in advance on removable recording media. When the usage contract expires, the system can autonomously generate and store the necessary information for state release without requiring immediate Internet connection, enabling offline operation while maintaining security control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a removable recording medium as an intermediary carrier that transports inquiry information from the first information processing system to a second system, which then communicates with the management server. This intermediary enables information transfer and state release without requiring the original system to maintain continuous Internet connectivity.
2Reliability
If the system prohibits use after contract expiration, then the business model enforcement is improved, but the user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically generating inquiry information containing identification data when the usage contract expires. The system can autonomously create the necessary records on removable media without requiring user intervention to initiate the release process, thereby maintaining business model enforcement while improving user convenience through automated procedures.
3Reliability
If the system requires connection to management server for state release, then the centralized control is improved, but the system flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the state release process into two independent parts: (1) generating and storing inquiry information locally on removable recording media, and (2) communicating with the management server through a second information processing system. This segmentation allows the first system to maintain centralized control compliance while operating flexibly without continuous server connection, as the segmented tasks can be performed at different times and locations.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing system includes a processor configured to: if a usage contract period has expired, activate a use-prohibited state that prohibits use of at least some functions of the system; output, as first printed material, inquiry information containing at least one piece of information from among identification information for the system and identification information for a user who uses the system; and release the use-prohibited state of the system according to use-prohibited state release instruction information outputted in response to the inquiry information outputted as the first printed material.