Communication Device Key Pair Distribution via Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sharing communication parameters between devices in a wireless network, such as those using the Wi-Fi Device Provisioning Protocol (DPP), require cumbersome steps involving external storage media to transfer unique keys, which complicates the process of setting up connections for multiple devices.
Innovation Solution
A communication device and method that includes an authentication unit, detection unit, and sharing unit to simplify the sharing of unique information used to set communication parameters, allowing devices to exchange and authenticate key pairs directly for efficient network setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external storage media are used to share the configurator's private-public key pair among multiple electronic devices, then the ability to provide communication parameters to multiple enrollees is improved, but the operational complexity and user burden increase due to the need to manually store and transfer keys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device that acts as a key distribution server, storing the configurator's private-public key pair and automatically distributing it to authorized enrollees. This intermediary eliminates the need for users to manually copy keys between external storage media, while still enabling multiple devices to receive communication parameters. The intermediary handles the complex key management operations centrally, reducing user burden while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables automatic copying of the configurator's key pair information from the intermediary device to multiple enrollee devices through wireless communication. Instead of requiring physical transfer via external storage media, the key information is digitally copied and transmitted automatically, significantly simplifying the operation while maintaining the ability to serve multiple enrollees.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the configurator's private-public key pair is stored in external storage media and transferred between devices, then key sharing among multiple configurators is enabled, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing the configurator's key pair information in the intermediary device before it is needed for distribution. This allows multiple configurators and enrollees to access the key information on-demand without requiring real-time manual transfer operations. The key information is prepared in advance and made readily available, eliminating time-consuming transfer operations while maintaining key sharing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical key transfer via external storage media with an electronic/digital system. The intermediary device uses wireless communication protocols to transmit key information electronically, substituting the manual mechanical process of copying files between USB drives or other external storage. This substitution dramatically reduces the time required for key sharing while maintaining the same functional capability.
3Productivity
If multiple configurators are allowed to provide communication parameters to enrollees, then user convenience and efficiency are improved, but security risks increase due to the need to share unique key pair information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary device as a secure key distribution server that maintains the original configurator's key pair information in a protected environment. The intermediary authenticates both configurators and enrollees before allowing key information exchange, ensuring that only authorized parties can access the keys. This intermediary architecture enables multiple configurators to operate efficiently while maintaining security, as the intermediary controls and monitors all key distribution operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the intermediary device verifies and monitors each key distribution transaction. The system tracks which configurator provided parameters to which enrollee, and validates that the key information has been correctly transmitted and stored. This feedback loop ensures security by detecting and preventing unauthorized access or misuse, while still allowing efficient operation through automated verification processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device that communicates with an external device performs authentication by exchanging information for authentication processing with the external device. In a case where the communication device detects a request to share unique information that is used to provide a communication parameter during the authentication processing, the communication device shares the unique information with the external device after authentication has been successfully completed.