Authenticated Wireless Pairing for Barcode Scanners via PIN Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for establishing authenticated wireless communications between devices fail for mobile devices lacking conventional input means, such as wireless barcode scanners, which cannot enter PIN codes using standard interfaces.

Innovation Solution

A system and method where a mobile device with a data capturing arrangement, like a barcode scanner, sends an initial signal to a host device, prompting the user to input a PIN code, which is then verified against a database to establish a secure Bluetooth connection, using a link key for authentication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional input means (keyboard, keypad, touch screen) are used for PIN code entry, then authentication can be established, but mobile devices lacking these input means cannot establish authenticated wireless connections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with mobile devicesVSAvoidPIN code input capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a display screen as an intermediary interface between the user and the authentication system. Instead of requiring direct input through conventional means, the system displays the PIN code on the screen, allowing users to view and input the code through alternative methods suitable for mobile devices without traditional input interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical input system (keyboard, keypad) with an optical display system. The PIN code is presented visually on a display screen, substituting the need for physical input devices with an optical interface that can be viewed and interacted with through mobile device-specific methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If wireless communication is established without authentication, then device connectivity is simplified, but security and unauthorized access prevention are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection establishmentVSAvoidauthentication security

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary authentication actions before establishing wireless communication. The system requires the display and verification of a PIN code through the display screen interface before allowing the wireless connection to be established, ensuring security is maintained while enabling mobile device compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8428261B2System and method for establishing authenticated wireless connection between mobile unit and host

Publication Date: 2013.04.23 SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES LLC

AI summary

Described is a method and system for establishing an authenticated wireless communication (e.g., using Bluetooth technology) between first and second mobile devices. The first device (e.g., a mobile barcode scanner) sends a signal to establish a wireless communication with the second device. The first device includes a data capturing arrangement (“DCA”) as an only input device interface with a user thereof. The second device initiates an authentication process by requesting the first device to obtain a PIN code from the user. Once the first device obtains the PIN code from the user via the DCA, a pairing process is performed to compare the PIN code to entries in a database of authorized PIN codes. When the pairing process has been successfully completed, a link key is generated to establish the authenticated wireless communication between the first and second devices.