Printer User Print Quota Control Through an Authentication Library
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming devices lack a function to manage the number of printing operations per user effectively.
Innovation Solution
A printer and printing system that allows administrators to easily initialize and manage counter values per user ID, set upper limits per user ID, and perform restrictions through a single operation screen, using an authentication/restriction management library to track and control printing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional image forming devices are used, then basic printing functions are available, but the number of printing operations per user cannot be managed effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an authentication/restriction management library as an intermediary component that handles user authentication and printing operation tracking. This library acts as a mediator between the user and the printing system, managing counter values and upper limits without requiring complex modifications to the core printing device. The library stores user information, counter values, and upper limits, and processes authentication requests, thereby resolving the contradiction by adding management functionality through a dedicated intermediary module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the authentication and restriction management functions from the main printing device and places them in a separate authentication/restriction management library. This extraction allows the printing device to maintain its basic simplicity while delegating the complex user management tasks to a dedicated library that can be independently updated and maintained. The library handles all operations related to user authentication, counter value management, and printing restrictions.
2Measurement precision
If multiple user restrictions are implemented, then precise printing control is achieved, but administrator operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple restriction management functions (user authentication, counter value tracking, upper limit setting, and initialization) into a single integrated authentication/restriction management library. This merging allows administrators to manage all user printing restrictions through one unified interface rather than dealing with separate systems for each function. The library consolidates these operations, enabling precise tracking while simplifying administrator tasks through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication/restriction management library is designed as a universal component that handles multiple functions: user authentication, counter value management, upper limit setting, and initialization operations. This multi-functional design allows a single library to manage all aspects of user printing restrictions, thereby achieving precise tracking accuracy while maintaining ease of operation through a unified management system that handles diverse tasks.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic restriction changes are allowed, then flexible printing control is achieved, but system reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by requiring administrator authorization before any restriction changes are made. When a user or system attempts to modify upper limits or counter values, the library first verifies administrator approval through an authorization confirming section. This preliminary authorization step ensures that dynamic changes are controlled and validated, maintaining system reliability while allowing necessary flexibility for legitimate adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication/restriction management library implements feedback mechanisms that monitor and track all restriction changes. When upper limits or counter values are modified, the library records these changes and provides feedback to ensure consistency and integrity. This feedback system maintains reliability by detecting and preventing unauthorized or erroneous modifications while still allowing legitimate dynamic adjustments through proper authorization channels.
Data Source
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AI summary
A printer has a function of restricting a number of printing during a particular period for each user ID. When printing is performed, a computer updates a counter value of the number of printing associated with a user ID corresponding to the printing, and restricts printing corresponding to the user ID when the counter value reaches an upper limit. When an individual operator is operated in an administrator PC, the computer initializes the counter value associated with the user ID corresponding the individual operator.