Cable-Lock Detection for Computing System Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems secured with cable-lock units, such as Kensington-type locks, can prevent physical theft but do not adequately prevent unauthorized access or data theft.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a lock port with a control unit that determines the presence or absence of a cable-lock unit and operates the computing system in a secure or normal mode accordingly, thereby restricting access and enhancing security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cable-lock unit is physically secured to prevent theft, then physical security is improved, but unauthorized access and data theft are not prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines physical security (cable-lock unit) with logical security (software-based access control) into a unified security system. The detection of the cable-lock unit's physical presence triggers software-based security modes that control system access, merging mechanical and digital security mechanisms to simultaneously address both physical theft prevention and unauthorized access prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism that monitors the physical state of the cable-lock unit and translates it into control signals for the operating system. This intermediary layer (detection system) bridges the physical security device and the software security policies, enabling the system to automatically adjust security levels based on physical security conditions.
2Reliability
If the computing system operates in a secure mode with restricted access, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic security modes that automatically adjust system access restrictions based on the detected presence or absence of the cable-lock unit. The system transitions between secure mode (when lock is present) and normal mode (when lock is absent), making security restrictions flexible and context-dependent rather than static, thereby improving ease of operation when the physical security device is properly connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the state of the cable-lock unit through detection mechanisms and provides feedback to the operating system to automatically adjust security levels. This feedback loop ensures that security restrictions are applied only when appropriate (when the lock is present) and removed when the user intentionally removes the lock, creating a responsive system that adapts to user actions while maintaining security.
Data Source
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AI summary
CABLE-LOCK UNIT PRESENCE IN COMPUTING SYSTEMS Examples of a computing system having a lock port for a cable-lock unit are described. In an example, a computing system includes a control unit, a receptacle electrically coupled to the control unit, a lock port to receive a cable-lock unit to lock the computing system at a location, a lock engagement member, and a plug coupled to the lock engagement member. The lock engagement member and the plug are to translate and form an electrical connection between the plug and the receptacle in response to receiving the cable-lock unit in the lock port. The control unit is to determine presence of the cable-lock unit in the lock port in response to formation of the electrical connection between the plug and the receptacle.