Colour Encoded Sequence for Secure Mobile Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secure communication methods are vulnerable to unauthorized access, as they do not effectively prevent data breaches during transmission, especially when using NFC technology, and lack universal compatibility with standard smartphones.
Innovation Solution
A method of securely communicating a colour encoded sequence of digits from a mobile device to a photo-receptor device using flashes of light, ensuring secure transmission by confirming proximity before displaying the sequence and using a trusted connection for authentication and transactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If NFC technology is used to transmit data, then communication speed and convenience are improved, but security is worsened due to vulnerability to sniffer devices and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary encoding mechanism that converts data into visual color patterns displayed on the mobile device screen. This intermediary representation prevents direct electromagnetic transmission vulnerabilities of NFC while maintaining data transfer capability. The color-coded visual display acts as a mediator between the mobile device and the receiving system, eliminating the security vulnerability to sniffer devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic field-based NFC transmission mechanism with a visual optical display mechanism. Instead of transmitting data through electromagnetic fields that can be intercepted by sniffer devices, the system displays color-coded visual patterns on the screen that are read by a camera or image sensor, substituting one physical transmission medium with another that has different security characteristics.
2Productivity
If data is transmitted continuously, then productivity is improved, but security is worsened due to increased exposure to potential breaches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic transmission where data is encoded into visual patterns that are displayed only when needed and for limited durations. The color-coded digits are presented in discrete time intervals rather than continuous transmission, reducing the window of opportunity for interception while maintaining adequate transmission speed for practical use.
3Reliability
If proximity detection is implemented before display, then security is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the mobile device's existing display screen and built-in sensors (accelerometer, proximity sensor) to automatically detect when the device is in the correct position for data transmission. The system self-regulates by detecting proximity and automatically initiating or preventing the display of color-coded data based on the detected conditions, eliminating the need for additional dedicated proximity detection hardware.
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 ensures secure data transmission by preventing unauthorized access and enabling secure connections for various applications, including access control and transactions, using a colour encoded format that dissipates with ambient light, thus protecting against eavesdropping.
Implementation Method 1
The colour encoded sequence of digits may be displayed in the form of flashes of light on the screen of the mobile device
Implementation Method 2
The information is transmitted as a coloured light signal, which, when entering contact with ambient light, dissipates and therefore it is not possible for it to be captured by a third party
Data Source
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AI summary
Secure communications using colour encoded messages are disclosed. Mobile devices may prepare colour encoded sequences to be displayed at and read by photo-receptor devices. Once the messages are decoded, the mobile devices may establish authorized access to a secured environment, they may secure Bluetooth connections with the photo-receptor devices. The secure Bluetooth connection may then facilitate access or vending of services or products.