Printer Authentication via IC Tag Wireless Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatus management systems in public places face challenges in cost-effectively managing and restricting access to printers, as existing methods such as personal identification numbers and IC cards are either insecure or costly, and do not allow for efficient use restriction and cost management.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus management system utilizing an IC tag for wireless communication with a memory connected to the tag, where authentication data is written and managed by a first information terminal, allowing the printer to restrict functions based on authentication data, enabling secure and cost-effective use management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If personal identification number is used for authentication, then the printer can be accessed by users, but the personal identification number may be revealed to unauthorized users and becomes useless
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses IC tags as physical copies of authentication credentials. Instead of relying on memorizable personal identification numbers that can be leaked, the system distributes physical IC tags to authorized users. Each IC tag contains unique identification information that cannot be easily replicated or stolen, providing secure authentication while maintaining ease of use through simple card presentation.
2Reliability
If IC card authentication is implemented, then authentication security is improved, but the management cost increases due to expensive reader/writer devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive IC tags instead of costly IC card reader/writer devices. The IC tags are low-cost storage elements that can be easily distributed to multiple users without requiring expensive infrastructure. This approach dramatically reduces the management cost while maintaining authentication security through the unique identification information stored in each tag.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic reader/writer system with a simpler identification-based system. Instead of using complex electromagnetic communication between readers and cards, the system uses basic IC tag identification that can be read by simpler devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If authentication data is frequently changed and notified to permitted users, then authentication security is maintained, but the management cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary distribution of IC tags to all authorized users before authentication is needed. The IC tags contain pre-configured identification information that remains valid for the authorized users. This eliminates the need for frequent updates and notifications, as the authentication credentials are established in advance and remain stable over time.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a public printing system with center server and print server is implemented, then use management capability is improved, but the system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential authentication function from the complex public printing system architecture. Instead of requiring a full center server and print server infrastructure, the invention isolates and implements only the core IC tag-based authentication mechanism. This simplified approach provides sufficient use management capability without the overhead of complex multi-server systems.
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
The system effectively limits printer use to authorized users, reduces management costs, and allows for flexible function allocation based on authentication data, ensuring secure and efficient operation of printers in public places.
Implementation Method 1
an IC tag performing wireless communication with the outside
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus management system includes: a printing apparatus which includes an IC tag performing wireless communication with the outside and a memory being connected to the IC tag; and a first information terminal which has at least a function of writing information in the memory through wireless communication with the IC tag. The first information terminal maintains authentication data used by the printing apparatus, writes the authentication data in the memory, and transmits the authentication data to another information terminal. In addition, the printing apparatus interrupts a predetermined function, when the authentication data is written by the first information terminal, and in a state where authentication data is written in the memory, the printing apparatus makes the predetermined function effective, when the authentication data written by the first information terminal before the interruption state and the authentication data written after the interruption state accord with each other.