WO2014164602A1 - Nœud d'interface d'imprimante virtuelle - Google Patents

Nœud d'interface d'imprimante virtuelle Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014164602A1
WO2014164602A1 PCT/US2014/022968 US2014022968W WO2014164602A1 WO 2014164602 A1 WO2014164602 A1 WO 2014164602A1 US 2014022968 W US2014022968 W US 2014022968W WO 2014164602 A1 WO2014164602 A1 WO 2014164602A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cloud
printer
communication interface
ready networked
interface
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2014/022968
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Russell Neville
Ashok Murthy
Yoshiaki Takahashi
Original Assignee
Xerox International Partners
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US13/793,273 external-priority patent/US8908214B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,338 external-priority patent/US8913272B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,359 external-priority patent/US9098218B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,311 external-priority patent/US8970885B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,376 external-priority patent/US9047027B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,324 external-priority patent/US8970859B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,304 external-priority patent/US9122436B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,285 external-priority patent/US8917414B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,350 external-priority patent/US20140253945A1/en
Priority claimed from US13/793,261 external-priority patent/US8908213B2/en
Priority to CN201480003342.7A priority Critical patent/CN105378643B/zh
Priority to JP2015545959A priority patent/JP6014908B2/ja
Application filed by Xerox International Partners filed Critical Xerox International Partners
Priority to AU2014249198A priority patent/AU2014249198B2/en
Priority to SG11201504464PA priority patent/SG11201504464PA/en
Publication of WO2014164602A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014164602A1/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1202—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to achieve a particular effect
    • G06F3/1203—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management
    • G06F3/1209—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management resulting in adapted or bridged legacy communication protocols, e.g. emulation, protocol extension
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1223—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to use a particular technique
    • G06F3/1229—Printer resources management or printer maintenance, e.g. device status, power levels
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1223—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to use a particular technique
    • G06F3/1236—Connection management
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1278—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to adopt a particular infrastructure
    • G06F3/1285—Remote printer device, e.g. being remote from client or server
    • G06F3/1287—Remote printer device, e.g. being remote from client or server via internet
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
    • H04N1/00127—Connection or combination of a still picture apparatus with another apparatus, e.g. for storage, processing or transmission of still picture signals or of information associated with a still picture
    • H04N1/00204—Connection or combination of a still picture apparatus with another apparatus, e.g. for storage, processing or transmission of still picture signals or of information associated with a still picture with a digital computer or a digital computer system, e.g. an internet server
    • H04N1/00209—Transmitting or receiving image data, e.g. facsimile data, via a computer, e.g. using e-mail, a computer network, the internet, I-fax
    • H04N1/00222—Transmitting or receiving image data, e.g. facsimile data, via a computer, e.g. using e-mail, a computer network, the internet, I-fax details of image data generation or reproduction, e.g. scan-to-email or network printing
    • H04N1/00233—Transmitting or receiving image data, e.g. facsimile data, via a computer, e.g. using e-mail, a computer network, the internet, I-fax details of image data generation or reproduction, e.g. scan-to-email or network printing details of image data reproduction, e.g. network printing or remote image display

Definitions

  • a virtual printer interface node intercepts communications between the cloud-based service and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer and provides the appropriate conversion so that the cloud- based service and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer can effectively communicated therebetween.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between said first communication interface and said second communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing, a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router, a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer, and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing, a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router, a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer, and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes anon-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud- ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud- ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud- ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud- ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • Cloud computing is the use of computing resources (hardware and software) that are delivered as a service over a network (typically the Internet).
  • cloud computing has been focused on web/cloud-based applications and web-connected mobile devices.
  • web/cloud-based applications and mobile devices have become more capable, users expect the same capabilities from these web/cloud-based applications and mobile devices that the users receive from the users' personal computers.
  • One such capability is printing.
  • Printing architectures and protocols (print drivers) of conventional personal computer operating systems can be complex and many times are proprietary to the manufacturers of the printing device.
  • a cloud based system is based upon achieving coherence and economies of scale, thereby relying upon converged infrastructure and shared services.
  • the complexity and proprietary nature of the conventional printing architectures and protocols negatively impact the feasibility of implementing a cloud-based printing service.
  • a cloud-ready printer has no need for a personal computer connection of any kind or for a print driver.
  • the printer can be simply connected directly to a network and then registered with a cloud print service to enable such a printer render print jobs.
  • a network-ready printer is a printer that includes a network interface (wired or wireless) that allows the printer to be directly connected to a network.
  • One conventional approach, as illustrated in Figure 1 , to enable a conventional network printer to be “cloud-ready” includes running software "connector” on a personal computer 20 associated with the conventional network printer 10, wherein the software "connector” registers the network printer, through a network 30, with the cloud-based service residing on the internet 40.
  • the communication channel 60 between the network 30 and the associated personal computer 20 may be wired or wireless.
  • the software "connector,” running on the personal computer 20, submits the print job to the printer 10, through the network 30, using the personal computer operating system's native printer software.
  • the communication channel 50 between the network 30 and the printer 10 may be wired or wireless.
  • the software "connector,” running on the personal computer 20, also communicates, through the network 30, with the cloud-based print service, residing on the internet 40, regarding any status information associated with the printer.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a conventional system to enable a conventional network printer to be "cloud-ready;"
  • Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of system using an inline device to enable a conventional network printer to be "cloud-ready;"
  • Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of system using a network device to enable a conventional network printer to be "cloud-ready;"
  • Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of an inline virtual printer interface node
  • Figure 5 illustrates a block diagram of a network virtual printer interface node
  • Figure 6 illustrates a flowchart showing the generation of an authentication code for the virtual printer interface node
  • Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart showing the authentication process between a virtual printer interface node and a cloud-based service
  • Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart showing the identification of the proper translation application to be utilized by the virtual printer interface node.
  • a cloud environment uses of computing resources (hardware and software) that are delivered as a service over a network (typically the Internet).
  • a network typically the Internet
  • a user can "rent” application software and/or databases, wherein the “cloud” providers manage the infrastructure and platforms on which the applications run, and the databases are stored.
  • end users may access cloud-based applications through a web browser or a light-weight desktop or mobile app while the software and user's data are stored on servers at a remote location.
  • a user may desire to have a conventional non-cloud-ready printer be fully functional with cloud based services.
  • a conventional non-cloud-ready printer be fully functional with cloud based services, the issues with the native protocols and architecture of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer not being readily compatible with the protocols of the cloud based service.
  • an inline virtual printer interface node 25 is provided to enable communication between a conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 and a cloud-based print service, residing on the internet 40.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25 is connected between the network (router) 30 and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10.
  • the communication channel 62 (connection) between the inline virtual printer interface node 25 and the network (router) 30 may be wired or wireless.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25, if the communication channel 62 (connection) between the inline virtual printer interface node 25 and the network (router) 30 is "wired," may include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable coming from the network (router) 30.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25, if the communication channel 62 (connection) between the inline virtual printer interface node 25 and the network (router) 30 is "wired," may include a cable jack for plugging in directly to a port of the network (router) 30.
  • the communication channel 55 (connection) between the inline virtual printer interface node 25 and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 may be wired or wireless.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25, if the communication channel 55 (connection) between the inline virtual printer interface node 25 and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 is "wired," may include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable coming from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25 if the communication channel 55 (connection) between the inline virtual printer interface node 25 and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 is "wired," may include a cable jack for plugging in directly to a port (network interface) of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25 converts the native protocols of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 to a unified protocol that can be used by a cloud based service, residing on the internet 40. In addition, the inline virtual printer interface node 25 converts the protocols used by the cloud based service, residing on the internet 40, to the native protocols of the conventional non-cloud- ready printer 10.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 25 is a physical device that is inline between the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 and the network (router) 30, the system does not require a personal computer to be running to enable the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 to be "cloud- ready.”
  • a network virtual printer interface node 35 is provided to enable communication between a conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 and a cloud- based print service, residing on the internet 40.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 is connected to the network (router) 30 and communicates with the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 through the network (router) 30.
  • the communication channel 62 (connection) between the network virtual printer interface node 35 and the network (router) 30 may be wired or wireless.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 if the communication channel 62 (connection) between the network virtual printer interface node 35 and the network (router) 30 is "wired," may include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable coming from the network (router) 30.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 if the communication channel 62 (connection) between the network virtual printer interface node 35 and the network (router) 30 is "wired," may include a cable jack for plugging in directly to a port of the network (router) 30.
  • the communication channel 57 (connection) between the network (router) 30 and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 may be wired or wireless.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 converts the native protocols of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 to a unified protocol that can be used by a cloud based service, residing on the internet 40. In addition, the network virtual printer interface node 35 converts the protocols used by the cloud based service, residing on the internet 40, to the native protocols of the conventional non-cloud- ready printer 10.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 receives commands from the cloud based service, residing on the internet 40, through the network (router) 30, and converts these commands to the native protocols of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10. The network virtual printer interface node 35 then communicates the converted native protocols to the conventional non- cloud-ready printer 10, through the network (router) 30.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 may receive information from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10, through the network (router) 30, and convert this information into a form that can be readily processed by the cloud based service, residing on the internet 40.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 then communicates the converted information to the cloud based service, residing on the internet 40, through the network (router) 30.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 35 is a physical device that is in communication with the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 and the network (router) 30, the system does not require a personal computer to be running to enable the conventional non-cloud-ready printer 10 to be "cloud-ready.”
  • Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of an inline virtual printer interface node 250.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 250 includes a housing 251 , two communication interfaces, 253 and 259, a microcontroller or processor 255, and a memory 257.
  • the communication interfaces, 253 and 259 enable a communication channel to be established between the inline virtual printer interface node 250 and a conventional non-cloud-ready printer or a network (router).
  • communication interface 253 may enable a communication channel to be established between the inline virtual printer interface node 250 and a conventional non-cloud-ready printer, and communication interface 253 may enable a communication channel to be established between the inline virtual printer interface node 250 and a network (router).
  • router a network
  • the communication interface 253 would include a transmitter and receiver capable of providing wireless communication.
  • the communication interface 259 would include a transmitter and receiver capable of providing wireless communication.
  • the communication interface 253 may include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the communication interface 253 would include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable coming from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the communication interface 259 may include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the communication interface 259 would include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable coming from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the communication interface 253 may include a cable jack for plugging in directly to a port of a network interface.
  • the communication interface 253 would include an integral cable jack that would plug directly into the cable jack port (RJ45) on the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the communication interface 259 may include a cable jack for plugging in directly to a port of a network interface.
  • the communication interface 259 would include an integral cable jack that would plug directly into the cable jack port (RJ45) on the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the microcontroller or processor 255 in conjunction with memory 257, converts commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, received through one of the communication interfaces (253 or 259), to the native protocols of a conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the microcontroller or processor 255 then causes the converted native protocols to be communicated to the conventional non-cloud-ready printer through the other communication interfaces (253 or 259).
  • the microcontroller or processor 255 in conjunction with memory 257, also converts information from a conventional non-cloud-ready printer, received through one of the communication interfaces (253 or 259), into a form that can be readily processed by the cloud based service, residing on the internet.
  • the microcontroller or processor 255 then causes the converted information to be communicated to the cloud based service, residing on the internet, through the other communication interfaces (253 or 259).
  • microcontroller or processor 255 and memory 257 may be realized by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).
  • ASIC application specific integrated circuit
  • the memory 257 may have pre-stored the information and commands necessary to convert the commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, to the native protocols of a specific conventional non-cloud-ready p nter.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node 250 may include functionality to identify the make and model of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer connected thereto. Based upon the identity the make and model of the conventional non-cloud-ready p nter connected to the inline virtual phnter interface node 250, the inline virtual phnter interface node 250 could download, from the internet, the information and commands necessary to convert the commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, to the native protocols of the identified conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a block diagram of a network virtual printer interface node 350.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 350 includes a housing 351 , a communication interface 359, a microcontroller or processor 355, and a memory 357.
  • the communication interface 359 enables a communication channel to be established between the network virtual phnter interface node 350 and a conventional non-cloud-ready phnter or a network (router).
  • communication interface 359 may enable a communication channel to be established between the network virtual printer interface node 350 and a conventional non-cloud-ready phnter, and communication interface 359 may enable a communication channel to be established between the network virtual printer interface node 350 and a network (router).
  • the communication interface 359 would include a transmitter and receiver capable of providing wireless communication.
  • the communication interface 359 may include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the communication interface 359 would include a cable jack port (RJ45) for receiving a cable coming from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • RJ45 cable jack port
  • the communication interface 359 may include a cable jack for plugging in directly to a port of a network interface.
  • the communication interface 359 would include an integral cable jack that would plug directly into the cable jack port (RJ45) on the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the microcontroller or processor 355 in conjunction with memory 357, converts commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, received through the communication interface 359, to the native protocols of a conventional non-cloud-ready phnter.
  • the microcontroller or processor 255 then causes the converted native protocols to be communicated to the conventional non-cloud-ready phnter through the communication interface 359.
  • the microcontroller or processor 355 then causes the converted information to be communicated to the cloud based service, residing on the internet, through the communication interface 359.
  • microcontroller or processor 355 and memory 357 may be realized by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).
  • ASIC application specific integrated circuit
  • the memory 357 may have pre-stored the information and commands necessary to convert the commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, to the native protocols of a specific conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 350 may include functionality to identify the make and model of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer connected thereto. Based upon the identity the make and model of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer connected to the network virtual printer interface node 350, the network virtual printer interface node 350 could download, from the internet, the information and commands necessary to convert the commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, to the native protocols of the identified conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the network virtual printer interface node 350 may be located (connected to) anywhere on the local area network.
  • the virtual printer interface node can receive power over the cables connected to the communication interfaces. If the communication interfaces are wireless, the virtual printer interface node would receive power from a power source.
  • the virtual printer interface node has been described with respect to a conventional non-cloud-ready printer, the virtual printer interface node can be utilized with a conventional non-cloud-ready multifunction printer; i .e., a device having at least scanning, printing, and copying functionality.
  • the virtual printer interface node has been described with respect to a conventional non-cloud-ready printer, the virtual printer interface node can be utilized with a network stand-alone scanner. In this situation, the virtual printer interface node converts the commands from a cloud based service, residing on the internet, to the native protocols of scanner.
  • the virtual printer interface node enables a conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be availed of cloud-based control based services. These services that are based on acquiring data from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer as well as sending commands to the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • these services may include break-fix service contracts, supplies contracts, remote monitoring services, and other related print services.
  • the microcontroller of the virtual printer interface node provides the mechanism to translate between various local area network (LAN) side protocols; such as simple network management protocol (SNMP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPs), exchange web service (EWS) screen scraping; and wide area network (WAN) or cloud side protocols; such as customer premise equipment wan management protocol (CWMP) being used as a transport protocol with command set being (a derivative of) the Technical Report 069 (TR 069) specification set.
  • LAN local area network
  • SNMP simple network management protocol
  • HTTP hypertext transfer protocol
  • HTTPs hypertext transfer protocol secure
  • EWS exchange web service
  • WAN wide area network
  • cloud side protocols such as customer premise equipment wan management protocol (CWMP) being used as a transport protocol with command set being (a derivative of) the Technical Report 069 (TR 069) specification set.
  • CWMP customer premise equipment wan management protocol
  • TR 069 Technical Report 069
  • the virtual printer interface node acts a proxy between the conventional non-cloud-ready printer and an application that communicates using a different interface platform by providing either a universal application programming interface on the WAN side or cloud side of the virtual printer interface node or enabling the communication with various interface platforms, wherein the memory would store the necessary information and instructions to recognize the interface being used by the application attempting to access the conventional non-cloud-ready printer and provide the proper translation to the native application programming interface of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the microcontroller of the virtual printer interface node would also provide the translation of the native application programming interface of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to the application programming interface of the cloud-based application that the conventional non-cloud-ready printer is attempting to access.
  • a third party provider may offer an application which communicates via the interface platform of the third party interface platform.
  • the virtual printer interface node would act as a proxy to allow the third party application to communicate with a non-enabled third party interface platform device (conventional non-cloud-ready printer) having a different application programming interface.
  • the microcontroller of the virtual printer interface node may also provide the mechanism to translate between local area network based protocols for the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to firewall friendly wide area network based protocols so as to allow the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be able to connect to external services (cloud based services).
  • the virtual printer interface node would need the appropriate translation application (translation program and/or translation driver) to enable communication therebetween.
  • the virtual printer interface node determines the identity of the device to which it will act as a translator (proxy) and the cloud-based service being utilized.
  • the virtual printer interface node may identify the print driver for the printing device, or the virtual printer interface node may identify the application programming interface utilized by the printing device.
  • the virtual printer interface node may identify the driver for the scanner, or the virtual printer interface node may identify the application programming interface utilized by the scanner.
  • the virtual printer interface node may identify the application programming interface utilized by the cloud- based service.
  • This identification process enables the virtual printer interface node to identify the translation couplet.
  • the virtual printer interface node determines if the appropriate translation application for the identified translation couplet is stored on the virtual printer interface node. [0126] If the appropriate translation application for the identified translation couplet is stored on the virtual printer interface node, at step S840, the appropriate stored translation application is retrieved from a memory in the virtual printer interface node.
  • the appropriate translation application for the identified translation couplet is not stored on the virtual printer interface node, at step S830, the appropriate translation application is downloaded from the internet; i.e., downloaded from a website (server) associated with the manufacture of the virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller of the virtual printer interface node can execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a user's browser which is connected through the local area network or proxied through the cloud connection for remote device interaction.
  • the virtual printer interface node would provide the necessary translations between the native protocols and native application programming interface of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer and the cloud based service.
  • the virtual printer interface node also enables a conventional non-cloud-ready multifunction printer to be availed of cloud-based content based services. These services are based on moving documents to and from conventional non-cloud-ready multifunction printer to the cloud services such as a cloud service bridge
  • the cloud service bridge is a universal gateway to cloud based third party services.
  • the virtual printer interface node implements a special cloud service bridge client that facilitates the document interchange processes between the conventional non-cloud-ready multifunction printer and the cloud service bridge, which in turn may pass some or all the document to a third party service for additional processing.
  • content based services may include: workflow automation, content conversion such as print-ready conversion, optical character recognition, etc.
  • the content based services could also include consumer services such as brokering and optimization of content that may be available on the broadcast TV or other internet based news channels, feeds, images or other content.
  • the virtual printer interface node further enables a conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be availed of device networking services. These services enable conventional non-cloud-ready printer, through the virtual printer interface node, to join a network of other devices that can be exposed to various communities. These communities can be part of a social network, for example, and once exposed to the conventional non-cloud-ready printer, can utilize the services from the conventional non- cloud-ready printer.
  • the virtual printer interface node can enable the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be connected to a social network such that when content is uploaded to the community, the content can be readily or automatically printed by the virtual printer interface node.
  • These communities can also exist for the purpose of enabling an ecommerce model to charge for the service of using the conventional non-cloud-ready printer once the conventional non-cloud- ready printer is exposed to the community.
  • non-cloud-ready printers utilize different versions of an application programming interface making it difficult for a third party system provider to invest adequately in learning a programming system that has a limited applicability, thereby limiting the benefits the third party system provider can provided for the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the virtual printer interface node implements a universal application programming interface protocol converter such that the third party only needs to invest in a single programming language and interface.
  • the virtual printer interface node can be used to gate services for the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • the virtual printer interface node could be used to gate services in the MFP based on a subscription model .
  • the virtual printer interface node acts to block usage of the multifunction printer, through content intercept or passing of settings to the multifunction printer to enable or disable certain features. If a valid active subscription is confirmed, the virtual printer interface node would enable those features.
  • the virtual printer interface node can utilize authentication protocols to prevent a misuse of remote services.
  • FIG. 6 An authentication process is illustrated in Figure 6. As illustrated in Figure 6, the virtual printer interface node, at step S610, determines the identity of the device to which it is connected.
  • the virtual printer interface node is an inline virtual printer interface node for a printing device, the virtual printer interface node would identify the printing device.
  • the virtual printer interface node is a network virtual printer interface node
  • the virtual printer interface node would identify the router for the local area network.
  • the virtual printer interface node at step S620, also determines its identity.
  • the virtual printer interface node creates an authentication code based upon the identity of the device to which it is connected and its identity. This would enable the authentication code to be linked or tied to the device/virtual printer interface node pair.
  • the authentication code could be generated using a password or other mechanism that uniquely identifies the authorized user of the virtual printer interface node.
  • the virtual printer interface node can be utilized with various devices by the authorized user.
  • step S640 the generated authentication code is registered with the cloud-based service.
  • the generated authentication code may be registered with a cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node so that if the proper authentication code is not received by the cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node, the virtual printer interface node is blocked from being utilized.
  • the virtual printer interface node If the virtual printer interface node is blocked from being utilized, this state of operation would not prevent the connected device from being used under normal conditions. In other words, the communications would pass through the virtual printer interface node without processing or translation. [0151 ] As illustrated in Figure 7, when the virtual printer interface node is invoked, at step S710, the cloud-based service associated with the virtual p nter interface node requests an authentication code, at step S720. The virtual p nter interface node, at step S730, generates an authentication code in a similar manner as described above with respect to Figure 6.
  • the authentication code is transmitted to the cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node, and the cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node validates, at step S750, the received authentication code.
  • the cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node may transmit an activation code to the virtual printer interface node to allow the virtual p nter interface node to be utilized.
  • the activation code could be time based in that the activation period of the virtual printer interface node may be defined in the activation code; i.e., activation for thirty minutes.
  • the cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node may transmit a deactivation code to the virtual printer interface node to block the virtual printer interface node from being utilized.
  • the cloud-based service associated with the virtual printer interface node would not transmit an activation code.
  • the virtual printer interface node would be designed not to be activated (functional) without the proper activation code.
  • the virtual printer interface node may, when the virtual printer interface node is connected to a conventional non-cloud-ready printer, poll the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to obtain unique identification of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer; such as the media access control (MAC) address of the conventional non-cloud-ready printer.
  • MAC media access control
  • the virtual printer interface node may combine this identification information with the identification information; such the media access control (MAC) address, of the virtual printer interface node to create a unique authentication code.
  • MAC media access control
  • This unique identification code may be registered with the cloud based service associated with the virtual printer interface node such that whenever a cloud based service is accessed that requires the functionality of the virtual printer interface node, the cloud based service associated with the virtual printer interface node would request the authentication code.
  • the authentication code generated by the virtual printer interface node would be different from the registered code because the code would be a combination of the identification of the new phnter and the identification of the virtual printer interface node. In such a situation, the cloud based service would block utilization of the virtual printer interface node.
  • the printer could still be utilized in the local area network environment.
  • the virtual printer interface node would create an authentication code based on current conventional non-cloud-ready printer connected thereto. This tying of the authentication code to the identification of both the virtual printer interface node and the conventional non-cloud-ready p nter prevents the virtual printer interface node from being improperly used with another unauthorized printer.
  • the authentication code is a user/virtual p nter interface node pair
  • the virtual phnter interface node would have to acquire the user identification mechanism and generate the authentication code therefrom.
  • the user identification mechanism may be acquired through a user interface on the connected device or other input mechanism.
  • the virtual phnter interface node intercepts communications between the cloud- based service and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer and provides the appropriate conversion so that the cloud-based service and the conventional non-cloud-ready printer can effectively communicated therebetween.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked phnter; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked phnter.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked phnter.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked phnter.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked phnter includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the non-cloud-ready networked printer may include scanning, copying, and printing functionality.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface m a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the non-cloud-ready networked printer may include scanning, copying, and printing functionality.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between said first communication interface and said second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing, a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router, a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer, and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer. [0226] The microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non- cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing, a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router, a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer, and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non- cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts local area network based protocols received from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to firewall friendly wide area network based protocols, the firewall friendly wide area network based protocols enabling the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be able to connect to the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts local area network based protocols received from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to firewall friendly wide area network based protocols, the firewall friendly wide area network based protocols enabling the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be able to connect to the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts local area network based protocols received from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to firewall friendly wide area network based protocols, the firewall friendly wide area network based protocols enabling the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be able to connect to the cloud-based service.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes anon-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts local area network based protocols received from the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to firewall friendly wide area network based protocols, the firewall friendly wide area network based protocols enabling the conventional non-cloud-ready printer to be able to connect to the cloud-based service.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked p nter.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked phnter.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked phnter.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked phnter.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request thggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked phnter and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked phnter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked phnter and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked phnter associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked p nter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked p nter; a network router; and a network virtual printer interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked p nter.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked p nter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • An inline virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router, includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non- cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked p nter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked p nter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked p nter; a network router; and an inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the inline virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a first communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; a second communication interface to provide communication directly to the non-cloud-ready networked printer; and a microcontroller operatively connected between the first communication interface and the second communication interface.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller converts commands associated with a first application programming interface language, received through the first communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to commands associated with a native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer, the first application programming interface language being different from the native application programming interface language of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the second communication interface, the converted commands associated with the native application programming interface language of the non- cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router and the second communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a port to receive a second cable connected to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router and the second communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the first communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked p nter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • a network virtual printer interface node for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer through to a network router includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked p nter to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • a system for providing communication between a cloud-based service, residing on an internet, and a non-cloud-ready networked printer includes a non-cloud-ready networked printer; a network router; and a network virtual phnter interface node.
  • the network virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface.
  • the microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller communicates, through the communication interface, the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller polls the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller creates an authentication code based on the identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.
  • the microcontroller registers the created authentication code with the cloud-based service.
  • the communication interface may be a port to receive a first cable connected to the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a jack for plugging into a network port of the network router.
  • the communication interface may be a transmitter/receiver to create a wireless communication channel with the network router.
  • the microcontroller may execute a web server application to provide administration, interaction, reporting, and control from a browser which is proxied through the cloud-based service for remote device interaction.
  • the microcontroller may gate services provided by the non-cloud-ready networked printer in response to restrictions communicated from the cloud-based service to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer may be a media access control address.
  • the identification information associated with the inline virtual printer interface node may be a media access control address.
  • the microcontroller may poll, in response to an authentication request form the cloud based- service, the non-cloud-ready networked printer to retrieve identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
  • the microcontroller may create an authentication code based on the authentication request triggered identification information retrieved from the non-cloud-ready networked printer and identification information associated with the non-cloud-ready networked printer associated with the inline virtual printer interface node.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Computing Systems (AREA)
  • Accessory Devices And Overall Control Thereof (AREA)
  • Computer And Data Communications (AREA)
  • Information Transfer Between Computers (AREA)
  • Facsimiles In General (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un nœud d'interface d'imprimante virtuelle qui permet à une imprimante non prête pour le nuage informatique de communiquer avec un service basé sur le nuage informatique, résidant dans l'Internet. Le nœud d'interface d'imprimante virtuelle comprend un boîtier ; une interface de communication fournissant une communication directe au routeur du réseau ; et un microcontrôleur connecté fonctionnellement à l'interface de communication. Le microcontrôleur convertit des commandes, reçues par le biais de l'interface de communication, en provenance du service basé sur le nuage informatique, résidant dans l'Internet, en des protocoles natifs de l'imprimante non prête pour le nuage informatique mise en réseau et communique les protocoles natifs convertis à l'imprimante non prête pour le nuage informatique mise en réseau.
PCT/US2014/022968 2013-03-11 2014-03-11 Nœud d'interface d'imprimante virtuelle WO2014164602A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2015545959A JP6014908B2 (ja) 2013-03-11 2014-03-11 仮想プリンタインタフェースノード
SG11201504464PA SG11201504464PA (en) 2013-03-11 2014-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
AU2014249198A AU2014249198B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2014-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
CN201480003342.7A CN105378643B (zh) 2013-03-11 2014-03-11 虚拟打印机接口节点

Applications Claiming Priority (20)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/793,285 2013-03-11
US13/793,311 2013-03-11
US13/793,338 US8913272B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,285 US8917414B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,376 US9047027B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 System for authenticating communications between a non-cloud ready networked printer and a cloud-based service through a virtual printer interface device
US13/793,376 2013-03-11
US13/793,338 2013-03-11
US13/793,359 2013-03-11
US13/793,350 2013-03-11
US13/793,324 2013-03-11
US13/793,304 2013-03-11
US13/793,261 US8908213B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,350 US20140253945A1 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 A system for authenticating communications between a non-cloud ready networked printer and a cloud-based service through a virtual printer interface device
US13/793,304 US9122436B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,273 US8908214B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,324 US8970859B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,311 US8970885B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 Virtual printer interface node
US13/793,273 2013-03-11
US13/793,359 US9098218B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2013-03-11 System for authenticating communications between a non-cloud ready networked printer and a cloud-based servise through a virtual printer interface device
US13/793,261 2013-03-11

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JP (2) JP6014908B2 (fr)
CN (1) CN105378643B (fr)
AU (1) AU2014249198B2 (fr)
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WO (1) WO2014164602A1 (fr)

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CN108023897B (zh) * 2018-01-05 2024-04-09 深圳有电物联科技有限公司 通信端口及具有所述通信端口的电子设备
JP7310782B2 (ja) * 2020-11-16 2023-07-19 横河電機株式会社 インターフェイス装置、インターフェイス方法、および、インターフェイスプログラム

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SG11201504464PA (en) 2015-07-30
AU2014249198A1 (en) 2015-06-25
JP2016500456A (ja) 2016-01-12
CN105378643B (zh) 2018-10-09
CN105378643A (zh) 2016-03-02
JP6014908B2 (ja) 2016-10-26
JP2017004535A (ja) 2017-01-05
AU2014249198B2 (en) 2017-06-01

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