P2P Image Forming Apparatus User Authentication Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image forming apparatuses supporting peer-to-peer (P2P) connections lack effective user authentication methods, which are necessary for secure and convenient operation, especially when using technologies like Wi-Fi Direct that enable direct device connections without an infrastructure network.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for performing image forming operations through user authentication, involving receiving and storing user identification information, authenticating users via device information, and executing operations only when authentication is successful, with the apparatus functioning as either an access point or client on a wireless local area network, and generating user identification information for registration when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If P2P connection is enabled without infrastructure network, then connection convenience and flexibility are improved, but security vulnerability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing user authentication before allowing any image forming operations. The system checks whether a user has been previously registered and authenticated, and only then permits operations to be executed. This preliminary verification ensures that even though P2P connections are convenient and flexible, security is maintained by verifying user identity before granting access.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If user authentication is implemented, then security is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the image forming apparatus automatically perform authentication decisions without requiring manual intervention. The control unit automatically checks the registered user information, verifies authentication status, and makes decisions about operation permission. This automation maintains security while avoiding the complexity of manual authentication processes.
3Reliability
If authentication check is performed before operation, then unauthorized access is prevented, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-registering users and storing their authentication information before actual operations occur. The system maintains a registered user information structure that is updated in advance, so that during operation, the authentication check is a simple lookup rather than a complex real-time verification process. This reduces processing time while maintaining reliable access control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of performing an image forming operation through a user authentication of an image forming apparatus that supports a peer to peer (P2P) connection includes: receiving and storing user identification information and an image forming operation by the image forming apparatus; receiving a P2P connection request from an external wireless device by the image forming apparatus for a user authentication; receiving device information from the wireless device by the image forming apparatus that is P2P connected to the wireless device, and performing the user authentication by using the received device information and the stored user identification information; and when the user authentication is succeeded, performing the image forming operation by the image forming apparatus.