Barcode Reader Accessory Authentication via Intermediary Cable
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode readers often require internal batteries for operation, limiting their functionality when not connected to a power source and lacking efficient communication protocols for authenticating as trusted accessories to host computers.
Innovation Solution
An externally powered barcode reader system that uses an external power source via a flexible cable, incorporating a processor and wireless interface for authentication and communication, enabling operation as a trusted accessory to host computers through specific communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If an external power source is used via a flexible cable, then continuous operation is ensured, but device complexity increases due to additional power management circuitry and authentication systems
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable with integrated power management circuitry acts as an intermediary between the external power source and the barcode reader. The cable includes power management circuits that handle power regulation and an authentication system that verifies trust credentials, thereby enabling continuous operation while managing the complexity within the cable rather than the barcode reader itself.
2Reliability
If authentication as a trusted accessory is implemented, then secure data transmission is achieved, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication system performs preliminary authentication of the barcode reader as a trusted accessory to the host computer before data transmission begins. The flexible cable's authentication system verifies trust credentials in advance, establishing secure communication channels and enabling reliable data transmission without requiring complex ongoing authentication protocols.
3Use of energy by moving object
If all received external power is used for operation at the same time it is received, then power efficiency is maximized, but power stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The power management circuits in the flexible cable act as intermediaries that receive external power and immediately distribute it to the barcode reader's operating components. This direct pass-through approach maximizes power efficiency by using all received power for operation while the power management circuits ensure stable voltage regulation and protection against power fluctuations.
Data Source
AI summary
A barcode reader and an accessory are disclosed. The accessory may include an interface system and a wireless and/or wired interface for communication with a host computer such that the barcode reader may communicate with the host computer via the accessory. The interface system includes an authentication coprocessor such that the barcode reader may establish mutual authentication with the host computer using the authentication coprocessor of the interface system. The barcode reader may send a request for an accessory identifier, and the accessory may then query the authentication coprocessor for the accessory identifier and provide the accessory identifier to the barcode reader. The barcode reader may send an authentication challenge to the accessory, and the accessory may then present the authentication challenge to the authentication coprocessor to obtain an authentication response, and provide the authentication response to the barcode reader.