Device Lock via Unlock Token for Transit Theft Deterrence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Theft of devices during transit from manufacturers to resellers or end-users is a significant concern, leading to increased costs for all parties involved, as devices lost in transit become worthless to unauthorized entities.
Innovation Solution
A device lock system that includes lock state circuitry, which allows OEMs and resellers to lock devices without powering them, using unlock tokens associated with device IDs, preventing unauthorized operation by requiring authentication and limiting device functionality until the token is provided.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If devices are left unlocked during transit, then device operation is convenient and ready for use, but devices are vulnerable to theft and unauthorized operation
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-configured with lock state circuitry and authentication mechanisms before transit. The lock is engaged by default during shipping, and the device is prepared to automatically unlock when it detects authorized components or authentication tokens, eliminating the need for manual unlocking while preventing theft.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary authentication mechanism is introduced between the device and unauthorized users. This includes authentication tokens, authorized component detection, or cryptographic verification that acts as a mediator to permit legitimate operation while blocking theft, allowing the device to remain operational for authorized users without compromising security.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If devices are locked during transit, then theft prevention is improved, but device operation is prevented until unlocking occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-service unlocking by automatically detecting authorized components or authentication tokens when they are introduced. The lock state circuitry autonomously transitions from locked to unlocked state based on detected authorization, eliminating the need for external unlocking actions while maintaining security during transit.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication mechanisms and lock state circuitry are pre-configured during manufacturing, preparing the device to automatically transition from locked to unlocked state when proper authorization is detected, ensuring seamless operation readiness without manual intervention.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If authentication mechanisms are implemented, then security against unauthorized operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication mechanisms are merged with existing device components such as the processor, memory, or I/O interfaces. The lock state circuitry is integrated into the device's existing architecture rather than added as a separate subsystem, reducing overall complexity while maintaining security functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Generally, this disclosure describes providing theft deterrence for a device while in transit. The system may include lock state circuitry configured to receive and store an unlock token, the unlock token configured to indicate that an associated device has successfully completed transit from a source to a destination; and lock state read circuitry configured to request the unlock token from the lock state circuitry and to determine whether the associated device has successfully completed transit from the source to the destination based on the unlock token.