Multi-Factor Authentication via Body Area Network and Radiofrequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inconvenience of repetitive user authentication on multiple electronic devices leads to users disabling security features, making devices susceptible to unauthorized use.
Innovation Solution
A method using a Body Area Network (BAN) interface and radiofrequency transceiver circuit to transmit and receive authentication information between electronic devices, allowing one device to control the unlocking or locking of another based on satisfying an authentication rule, thereby simplifying user authentication and enhancing security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If user authentication is required on every device, then security is improved, but user convenience deteriorates due to repetitive authentication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the authentication process by separating authentication operations into different domains: BAN authentication for devices worn on the same body (through body conduction) and radiofrequency authentication for other devices. This segmentation allows the system to apply different authentication requirements based on the communication medium, reducing repetitive authentication for BAN-connected devices while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal authentication mechanism where a single authentication operation on one device can control multiple devices through both BAN and radiofrequency networks. The authentication result is propagated across the device ecosystem, allowing one authentication to serve multiple devices simultaneously, thereby improving convenience without compromising security.
2Ease of operation
If users disable device authentication operations, then user convenience is improved, but security deteriorates making devices susceptible to unauthorized use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication system that mediates between user convenience and security. Instead of requiring authentication on every device or disabling it entirely, the system uses a central authentication mechanism that propagates authentication status across devices. This intermediary layer maintains security by verifying authentication through BAN or radiofrequency channels while allowing convenient access across multiple devices without repeated authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where authentication status is continuously monitored and propagated across the device network. When a user authenticates on one device, this authentication state is feedback to connected devices through BAN or radiofrequency communication, automatically updating their access status. This feedback loop maintains security without requiring manual re-authentication on each device.
3Reliability
If multi-factor authentication is implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic authentication system where the authentication path adapts based on the communication medium. The system automatically selects between BAN authentication (when devices are body-connected) and radiofrequency authentication (when they are not), rather than requiring both simultaneously. This dynamic approach maintains multi-factor security while reducing the perceived complexity by adapting requirements to the actual usage context.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the authentication parameters based on the communication channel being used. BAN authentication leverages the unique electrical properties of body conduction, while radiofrequency authentication uses electromagnetic wave properties. By changing authentication parameters according to the medium rather than applying a fixed complex multi-factor requirement, the system maintains security while adapting complexity to the specific communication context.
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 solution simplifies user authentication across devices, maintaining security by allowing a single authentication operation to unlock multiple devices and automatically locking them when disconnected, reducing user inconvenience and unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting first authentication information through a Body Area Network (BAN) interface circuit that communicates with a second electronic device using electrical signals conducted through electrodes contacting a body of a user
Implementation Method 2
receiving second authentication information through a radiofrequency transceiver circuit that communicates via an antenna through an air-interface
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a processor of a first electronic device includes transmitting first authentication information through a Body Area Network (BAN) interface circuit that communicates with a second electronic device using electrical signals conducted through electrodes contacting a body of a user extending between the first and second electronic devices. Second authentication information is received through a radiofrequency transceiver circuit that communicates via an antenna through an air-interface with the second electronic device. A command to control an operation of the second electronic device is communicated responsive to determining that a combination of the first authentication information and the second authentication information satisfies an authentication rule.