Conference Call Proximity Access Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current conference call systems lack effective mechanisms to ensure security by controlling access based on the proximity of communication devices, leading to potential eavesdropping and unauthorized participation, especially in scenarios where sensitive topics are discussed or secure locations are not guaranteed.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that associates proximity settings with conference calls, using devices to sense the proximity of other devices and enforce access policies through a processor, ensuring only authorized and secure devices can participate, with mechanisms for periodic proximity checks and policy enforcement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional participant validation techniques are used, then authorized users can join conference calls, but security boundaries are insufficient to prevent eavesdropping and unauthorized access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconference call securityVSAvoidaccess control mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs proximity detection and security validation before allowing conference call participation. The mobile device detects nearby communication devices using sensing mechanisms (GPS, accelerometer, gyroscope) and evaluates proximity settings before granting access to the conference call, preventing unauthorized participation in advance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary security layer between the user and the conference call. The proximity detection system and access policy document act as intermediaries that mediate access requests, evaluating device proximity and security context before allowing connection to the conference call

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If speakerphone is used for flexibility, then participants can be reached on various devices, but eavesdropping risk increases in non-secure locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice flexibilityVSAvoideavesdropping risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different security requirements based on the local context of each participant. Proximity settings are configured individually for each mobile device participating in the conference call, allowing the system to enforce appropriate security levels (such as requiring headset usage) based on the specific device's location and environment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If access control based on device proximity is implemented, then security is enhanced, but system complexity and computational requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess control securityVSAvoidproximity detection system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses a universal access policy document that can be applied to multiple mobile devices and conference calls. The proximity detection mechanism leverages existing mobile device sensors (GPS, accelerometer, gyroscope) that serve multiple functions, avoiding the need for specialized hardware while maintaining security capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9374470B2Method and system for enhanced conference call security
Publication Date: 2016.06.21 MALIKIE INNOVATIONS LTD
  • US9374470B2 patent drawing
  • US9374470B2 patent drawing
  • US9374470B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling access by of communication devices to a conference call, the method comprising associating proximity settings with a conference call, the proximity settings indicating a acceptable proximity of other communication devices relative to a selected communication device; sensing by the selected communication device proximity of the other devices within its proximity of the communication device to obtain proximity information; and determining, by a processor, from the obtained proximity information and the proximity settings an action to be performed with reference to the conference call.