Electronic Device Locking via RSSI and Transmit Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic device locking mechanisms require user input, balancing security and convenience, and there is a need for a method to lock or unlock devices without user intervention, especially in short-range communication scenarios.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device equipped with a short-range communication unit and a controller that uses RSSI and transmit strength values from a connected counterpart device to automatically lock or unlock, based on preset reference values, allowing for secure and convenient operation without user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking function requiring user input (pattern or password) is implemented, then security is improved, but user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device automatically performs locking and unlocking operations without requiring user input. The device uses its own resources (short-range communication unit, controller) to detect nearby devices and autonomously determine whether to lock or unlock, eliminating the need for manual pattern or password entry while maintaining security through automated authentication protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical interaction of manual pattern or password entry with an automated wireless communication-based system. The short-range communication unit transmits and receives signals to authenticate nearby devices, and the controller automatically processes this information to control the locking function, substituting manual mechanical input with automated electronic detection and decision-making
2Ease of operation
If automatic locking based on short-range communication is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing short-range communication unit, which was originally designed for general wireless communication purposes, and repurposes it for authentication and locking control. By making the communication unit multi-functional (serving both communication and security authentication purposes), the patent avoids adding dedicated hardware components, thereby reducing the increase in device complexity while enabling automatic locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary that coordinates between the short-range communication unit and the locking function. The controller receives communication signals, processes authentication information, and automatically controls the locking mechanism, simplifying the overall system architecture by using a centralized control element rather than requiring direct integration between multiple specialized components
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device and method for controlling locking of an electronic device are disclosed. An electronic device includes a short-range communication unit for performing short-range communication and a controller for controlling locking of the electronic device by using an RSSI value of a counterpart electronic device connected by short-range communication through the short-range communication unit and a transmission strength value of the counterpart electronic device to control the locking of the electronic device.