Secure Mobile Access via Dual Proximity Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for secure local access and validation using wireless systems face challenges in identifying the correct mobile device among multiple devices and ensuring proximity, particularly with Bluetooth and NFC protocols, which often require close proximity and complex implementations.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and system that combines wireless communication and proximity detection means to securely and simply identify a mobile device within a several-meter range, using a combination of wireless communication protocols like Bluetooth Low Energy and NFC, with a capacitive sensor, and a backend server for secure key management, enabling actions based on detected proximity and message authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If Bluetooth protocol is used for wireless communication, then communication range is extended to several meters, but device identification complexity increases when multiple mobile devices are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two proximity detection means (first proximity detection means and second proximity detection means) into a single apparatus. The first means detects proximity based on wireless communication signals, while the second means provides additional proximity verification. This merging allows the system to maintain extended communication range while resolving device identification ambiguity through multi-layered proximity verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary validation mechanism that acts as a mediator between the wireless communication system and the asset access control. The intermediary validates whether the detected proximity values from both detection means are consistent, thereby simplifying the overall identification process by filtering out false positives and confirming legitimate access requests.
2Reliability
If NFC protocol is used for near communication, then security is enhanced through close proximity requirement, but communication range is limited to centimetre distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal proximity detection system that can operate with multiple communication protocols (Bluetooth, NFC, and other wireless protocols). The apparatus maintains the security requirements of NFC by using the second proximity detection means to verify close proximity, while simultaneously enabling the extended range of Bluetooth through the first proximity detection means. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different security and range requirements.
3Device complexity
If single proximity detection means is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but identification reliability decreases in multi-device environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the apparatus receives proximity values from both detection means, compares them, and validates whether they are consistent with each other. This feedback loop ensures that only legitimate access requests that pass both proximity verification stages are granted, significantly improving identification reliability in multi-device environments while maintaining reasonable system simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides secure and simplified identification and validation of mobile devices, allowing communication over a wider range than traditional NFC, with enhanced security and reliability, enabling actions such as access control and command execution.
Implementation Method 1
the scheme may be less elaborated, and physical detection of a mobile device is obtained by means of a capacitive sensor
Implementation Method 2
detect a second proximity value of said mobile device via said wireless communication means, on receipt of an at least one wireless message issued by the mobile device
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention is enclosed in the area of local access and validation, specifically by means of wireless systems. It is an object of the present invention an apparatus (1) for secure local access and validation with a mobile device (10), comprising wireless communication means and proximity detection means, and configured to issue a wireless beacon (S1) comprising an identification, detect a first proximity value (S2a) and a second proximity value (S2b) of said mobile device (10), such second value on receipt of an at least one wireless message issued by the mobile device (10), and being further configured to, based on said first proximity value and second proximity value, determine a detected proximity (S3) and cause an action to initiate (S4) based on such detected proximity. Such apparatus (1) provides for secure and simplified identification of a mobile device (10), for access purposes. A system comprising such apparatus (1) and a mobile device (10), and an associated method are also part of the present invention.