Remote Asset Tagging for Multifunction Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process of managing and registering multifunction peripherals (MFPs) is costly, time-consuming, and prone to errors due to the need for manual onsite visits to tag and register each device.
Innovation Solution
A remote asset tagging and management system that allows for the automated tagging and registration of MFPs through the deployment of templates with encoded indicia, such as QR codes, which can be scanned to initiate the printing of asset tags and automated cataloging of devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual onsite visits are used to tag and register each MFP, then device registration can be completed, but the process becomes expensive and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP devices automatically generate and print their own asset tags with encoded indicia containing device identification information. The system enables self-registration where devices tag themselves without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing the time and cost of onsite visits while ensuring complete device registration through automated discovery protocols
Solution Approach 2:
Asset tags with encoded indicia are prepared and made available before the actual registration process. The system pre-configures templates and establishes automated discovery protocols in advance, allowing devices to be registered immediately upon connection without requiring manual tag creation during onsite visits
2Reliability
If manual onsite visits are used to tag and register each MFP, then device registration can be completed, but the process is expensive requiring agent travel
Solution Approach 1:
The MFP devices automatically generate and print their own asset tags with encoded indicia containing device identification information. The system enables self-registration where devices tag themselves without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing the time and cost of onsite visits while ensuring complete device registration through automated discovery protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual tag creation and physical device registration with an automated electronic system. MFPs use their built-in printing capabilities and network communication to automatically generate, print, and register asset tags through encoded indicia, eliminating the need for agent travel and manual operations
3Quantity of substance
If manual registration processes are used, then devices can be cataloged, but significant risk exists that devices will be missed
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated discovery protocols that continuously monitor the network for MFP devices. When devices are detected, the system automatically initiates tag generation and registration processes, providing real-time feedback loops that ensure all devices are accounted for and registered, eliminating the human error associated with manual counting and tracking
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for asset registration and tagging includes determining candidate devices on a network or subnet. Device information is pulled from discovered devices. Device records are stored with device information including device serial number, model number, asset ID and service record information. A QR code is generated and displayed or printed at each discovered device. A device user scans the QR code to supply location information, as well as other user input, which is added to the device information. A device is then registered and an asset tag is printed at the device with instructions to affix it on an exterior for future reference.