Audio-Based Device Pairing via Frequency Shift Keying
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device pairing methods, such as Bluetooth, require special hardware, are limited to preconfigured functions, and can experience unintended pairing due to signal range, and battery stress, while also lacking robust security mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A method using audio signals for device association, where a first device broadcasts a request via its speaker, and the second device enters a security code displayed on the first device's display, with verification ensuring secure connection, utilizing frequency shift keying for data encoding and decoding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Bluetooth technology is used for device pairing, then devices can exchange data to work together, but special hardware is needed at both ends and extra hardware in devices can put more stress on device batteries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electromagnetic Bluetooth pairing system with an acoustic system using speakers and microphones. The first device broadcasts a request for association using an audio signal through its speaker, and the second device receives this audio signal through its microphone. This substitution eliminates the need for special Bluetooth hardware while achieving the same pairing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes use of existing universal components (speakers and microphones) that are already present in most devices for audio output and input. By utilizing these existing components for pairing purposes, the invention eliminates the need for dedicated pairing hardware, reducing device complexity while maintaining pairing functionality.
2Ease of operation
If Bluetooth signals are used for pairing, then devices can connect wirelessly, but the signals have wider range which can cause unintended pairing without proper security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the acoustic pairing signal location-specific and directionally limited. Since audio signals propagate in a more localized manner compared to Bluetooth radio waves, the pairing request is naturally confined to a specific physical location and direction, reducing the risk of unintended pairing with distant or unauthorized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary security code verification step between the first and second devices. The first device displays a security code, and the second device must enter this code to confirm the pairing. This intermediary verification mechanism prevents unintended pairing by ensuring that only authorized users can complete the association process.
3Reliability
If Bluetooth pairing is used, then devices can be associated, but the paired devices must stay within a physical proximity to each other after the pairing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the Bluetooth wireless communication system with an acoustic system using speakers and microphones. The first device broadcasts a request for association using an audio signal through its speaker, and the second device receives this audio signal through its microphone. This substitution eliminates the need for special Bluetooth hardware while achieving the same pairing functionality.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If security verification is implemented in device pairing, then unintended pairing is prevented, but the pairing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary security code verification step between the first and second devices. The first device displays a security code, and the second device must enter this code to confirm the pairing. This intermediary verification mechanism prevents unintended pairing by ensuring that only authorized users can complete the association 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
This approach eliminates the need for extra hardware, allows flexible function distribution between devices without prewiring, and provides secure association with a short communication range, reducing battery stress and preventing unintended pairing.
Implementation Method 1
The first device through its speaker broadcasts a request for association using an audio signal
Implementation Method 2
A response message including a security code entered by the user of the second device is received by the first device
Implementation Method 3
utilizing frequency shift keying for data encoding and decoding
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of associating a first device with a second device is disclosed. The first device through its speaker broadcasts a request for association using an audio signal. The broadcasted audio signal is received by the second device through its microphone. The first and second devices then cooperatively verifies a security code and upon a successful verification of the security code, the first and the second devices are enabled to communicate with each other.