Domestic Appliance Secure Communication via Remote Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing domestic appliances that connect to wireless networks for communication often lack secure authentication methods, making them vulnerable to unauthorized data exchange or control, and require complex multi-step processes for connection establishment.
Innovation Solution
A method for securing communication between domestic appliances through a remote server, involving establishing communication with the server via a local wireless network, exchanging public keys, and generating an encryption key for intra-appliance communication over a secondary connection channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If printed QR codes or password codes are used for authentication, then security is improved, but the codes may be susceptible to wear, obfuscation, or removal and require direct user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables appliances to automatically authenticate and establish secure connections with each other through the remote server without requiring user intervention. The first appliance independently generates an encryption key and transmits it to the second appliance via the server, eliminating the need for users to manually enter or scan QR codes or passwords.
Solution Approach 2:
A remote server acts as an intermediary between appliances to facilitate secure key exchange. The server receives the first appliance's identification and public key, transmits this information to the second appliance, and enables the second appliance to generate and send back an encryption key, all without direct user involvement in the authentication process.
2Reliability
If multiple processes using multiple user interfaces are required to establish connection, then security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple security functions into a unified automated process. The identification generation, public key exchange, encryption key generation, and secure channel establishment are merged into a single automated sequence that occurs without user intervention, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The first appliance preliminarily generates its identification and public key before the connection process begins. This preliminary preparation enables the automated exchange process to proceed smoothly without requiring users to manually configure security settings or enter authentication codes during the connection process.
3Reliability
If public key exchange through remote server is implemented, then authentication security is improved, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The remote server serves as a trusted intermediary that simplifies the public key exchange process. Instead of requiring direct complex cryptographic protocols between appliances, the server mediates the exchange by receiving the first appliance's public key and transmitting it to the second appliance, reducing protocol complexity while maintaining security.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of securing communication between a first domestic appliance and a second domestic appliance through a remote server may include establishing communication between the first domestic appliance and the remote server through a local wireless network, which may include receiving a first public key. The method may also include establishing communication between the second domestic appliance and the remote server through the local wireless network, which may include receiving a second public key. The method may further include generating an encryption key at the first and second domestic appliances following establishing communication between the first domestic appliance and the remote server and establishing communication between the second domestic appliance and the remote server. The method may still further include directing use of the encryption key in intra-appliance communication over a secondary connection channel apart from the local wireless network.