18524175. MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, METHOD, IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS, AND SERVER APPARATUS simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
- 1 MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, METHOD, IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS, AND SERVER APPARATUS
- 1.1 Organization Name
- 1.2 Inventor(s)
- 1.3 MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, METHOD, IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS, AND SERVER APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
- 1.4 Simplified Explanation
- 1.5 Potential Applications
- 1.6 Problems Solved
- 1.7 Benefits
- 1.8 Potential Commercial Applications
- 1.9 Possible Prior Art
- 1.10 Unanswered Questions
- 1.11 Original Abstract Submitted
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, METHOD, IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS, AND SERVER APPARATUS
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
MAREHIKO Hirajima of Kanagawa (JP)
HIROYUKI Munetsugu of Kanagawa (JP)
KAZUMICHI Shimizu of Chiba (JP)
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, METHOD, IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS, AND SERVER APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18524175 titled 'MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, METHOD, IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS, AND SERVER APPARATUS
Simplified Explanation
The patent application describes a system where a device containing a consumable agent is authenticated by a server apparatus based on a specific code obtained by an apparatus in a user environment. This authentication process allows for the replenishment path of the consumable agent to be opened or for an inhibiting mechanism to be put in a state where the device can be inserted into an image-forming apparatus.
- Apparatus in user environment obtains a specific code for a device containing a consumable agent.
- Server apparatus in a remote environment authenticates the device based on the code obtained.
- Successful authentication opens the replenishment path for the consumable agent or allows the inhibiting mechanism to be put in a state for device insertion.
Potential Applications
This technology can be applied in various industries such as printing, manufacturing, and healthcare where consumable agents need to be replenished or monitored for proper usage.
Problems Solved
1. Ensures only authorized devices with valid codes can access and replenish consumable agents. 2. Prevents unauthorized devices from being inserted into image-forming apparatus, ensuring proper functionality and safety.
Benefits
1. Enhanced security and control over consumable agent replenishment. 2. Improved efficiency in managing consumable agents in devices. 3. Prevents potential damage or malfunction caused by unauthorized devices.
Potential Commercial Applications
"Secure Consumable Agent Replenishment System for Image-Forming Devices" can be utilized in printer manufacturing companies, medical equipment suppliers, and office supply providers to offer secure and efficient consumable agent management solutions.
Possible Prior Art
One possible prior art could be systems that use RFID technology for authentication and monitoring of consumable agents in devices. These systems may not have the same level of security and control as the described invention.
Unanswered Questions
How does the system handle potential errors or failures in the authentication process?
The patent application does not specify how the system deals with authentication failures or errors that may occur during the process.
What measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access to the consumable agent replenishment path?
The application does not detail the specific security features or protocols that ensure only authorized devices can access the replenishment path.
Original Abstract Submitted
In a management system, an apparatus that is present in a user environment obtains a code that is specific to a device containing a consumable agent to be consumed for image formation or specific to a cartridge-type device insertable into an image-forming apparatus. A server apparatus that is present in a remote environment performs authentication for the device based on the code obtained by the apparatus. When the authentication performed by the server apparatus is successful, a replenishment path of the consumable agent from the device to the image-forming apparatus is opened or the replenishment path is allowed to be opened, or an inhibiting mechanism capable of inhibiting the device from being inserted into the image-forming apparatus is put in a state in which the device can be inserted.
