Aspirating Smoke Detector Pairing via Buzzer-Encoded Temporary Keys
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aspirating smoke detector devices often lack direct communication of operational parameters to users, especially in inexpensive models, making commissioning, maintenance, and upgrading difficult, and existing pairing methods with mobile devices pose cybersecurity risks.
Innovation Solution
A secure out-of-band pairing method using a buzzer to generate audio signals corresponding to a temporary key, allowing pairing with a mobile device without additional hardware, leveraging existing detectors' controllers to enhance functionality and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pairing methods are used with mobile devices, then connectivity and functionality expansion are achieved, but cybersecurity vulnerabilities increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a random key generated by the detector as an intermediary element in the pairing process. This random key serves as a mediator between the detector and mobile device, enabling secure authentication without direct exposure of sensitive credentials. The key is transmitted through an out-of-band channel (buzzer audio signal) rather than direct wireless communication, adding a layer of security against cyber attacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electronic/wireless key transmission mechanisms with an acoustic signaling mechanism. The buzzer generates audible tones that encode the random key, which is then received and decoded by the mobile device's microphone. This substitution of electronic communication with acoustic signaling creates an out-of-band authentication channel that is resistant to common cyber attacks targeting wireless protocols.
2Ease of operation
If additional hardware is added to enable pairing and communication, then functionality and user interface capabilities are enhanced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing buzzer component multi-functional by using it not only for alarm purposes but also for transmitting pairing authentication data. The buzzer's acoustic output is leveraged to convey the random key to the mobile device, eliminating the need for dedicated communication hardware. This universal use of existing components enhances functionality without adding hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector uses its own existing components (buzzer and controller) to perform the authentication function that would traditionally require separate dedicated hardware. The controller generates and transmits the random key through the buzzer, and the system completes pairing autonomously without requiring external authentication devices or additional user intervention beyond initiating the pairing process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure and cost-effective expansion of detector functionality by allowing users to monitor and modify operational parameters through a mobile device interface, enhancing facility safety and reducing cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the controller to generate a temporary key (TK) having a plurality of digits, cause a buzzer to produce a buzzer signal including a plurality of portions corresponding to the plurality of digits of the TK
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and systems for pairing with an aspirating smoke detector device are described herein. One device includes a wireless module, a buzzer; and a controller. The wireless module can be configured to receive a connection request from a mobile device, and the controller can be configured to generate a temporary key (TK) having a plurality of digits, cause the buzzer to produce a buzzer signal including a plurality of portions corresponding to the plurality of digits of the TK, receive, via the wireless module, an indication of the TK determined by the mobile device based on the buzzer signal, and communicate with the mobile device to complete a pairing with the mobile device using the TK.