Digital Assistant Network Joining with Dynamic Passwords

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless network management is cumbersome and insecure, as static passwords are difficult to remember and access information is often needed, and existing solutions lack seamless and secure methods for device connection to local area networks.

Innovation Solution

A system using a digital assistant with voice input capabilities to receive commands for device access to a local area network, allowing devices to join the network with one-time use passwords and revoking access after a threshold time, while maintaining security through geo-fencing and parental control options.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If static passwords are used for network access, then network security is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates due to long and hard-to-remember passwords

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork securityVSAvoidpassword memorization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic password generation where passwords change over time and are context-specific. Instead of static passwords, the system generates temporary, time-limited passwords that are automatically distributed to authorized devices, making them easy to use while maintaining security through frequent rotation and time constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces a network administrator device as an intermediary that automatically generates and distributes passwords to client devices. This mediator eliminates the need for users to manually create or remember complex passwords, as the administrator device handles password generation and distribution automatically based on device identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If detailed device information is required for network joining, then network security is improved, but ease of operation worsens as users lack access to such information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork securityVSAvoiddevice information access
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary device identification and information collection automatically before network joining is requested. The client device's identifying information is gathered in advance during the discovery phase, eliminating the need for users to manually provide detailed device specifications when attempting to join the network.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation where devices automatically provide their own identifying information to the network administrator device. The client device transmits its identification data autonomously without requiring user intervention to gather or input detailed device information, simplifying the joining process while maintaining security verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a network administrator manually manages access at a terminal, then network security is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to inconvenient terminal location

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork securityVSAvoidadministrator accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The network administrator device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a security management platform and a mobile access point. It can remotely authenticate and manage multiple client devices across different locations, eliminating the need for physical presence at a fixed terminal while maintaining comprehensive security control over the network.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical terminal operation with automated electronic communication. The network administrator device uses wireless communication and automated protocols to manage device access remotely, substituting the need for manual, location-bound terminal operation with automated, location-independent electronic management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Ease of operation

If permanent device access is granted to the network, then ease of operation is improved, but network security worsens due to potential unauthorized use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connection simplicityVSAvoidnetwork security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic password rotation and time-limited access grants. Instead of permanent access, passwords are valid only for specific time periods and must be renewed or reissued. This periodic validation maintains security by limiting the window of opportunity for unauthorized use while preserving convenient access for authorized devices within the validity period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically discards expired passwords and revokes access rights when time limits are reached or when devices are no longer authorized. Used passwords are discarded and cannot be reused, while the administrator device retains the ability to recover and reissue new passwords to authorized devices, maintaining security while enabling repeated legitimate access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentUS10848392B2Systems and methods to use digital assistant to join network
Publication Date: 2020.11.24 LENOVO SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • US10848392B2 patent drawing
  • US10848392B2 patent drawing
  • US10848392B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one aspect, a first device includes a processor and storage accessible to the processor. The storage includes instructions executable by the processor to receive, via a digital assistant, input pertaining a second device joining a network. The instructions are also executable by the processor to use the input to assist the second device in joining the network.