Dynamic RFID Input Device for Adaptive Layout and User Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional computer input devices are not customizable for specific users or applications, requiring users to adapt to standard layouts and lacking user identification, leading to security vulnerabilities and inefficient operation.

Innovation Solution

Dynamic RFID-based input devices with manually activated RFID tags and customizable layouts that transmit data wirelessly to input stations, allowing for user-specific configurations and secure authentication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standard fixed-layout input devices are used, then device simplicity and manufacturing ease are maintained, but user customization and application-specific optimization are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoiddevice configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of input device features based on detected user characteristics. The device transitions from a static fixed layout to a dynamic adaptive layout that automatically adjusts key positions, sizes, and configurations based on user profile data, eliminating the need for manual customization while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The input device performs self-configuration by automatically detecting user characteristics (such as hand size, typing speed, or preferred applications) and autonomously adjusting its layout and features. This eliminates the need for users to manually configure the device, resolving the contradiction between customization capability and configuration complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If traditional input devices without user identification are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but security and user-specific preferences are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidauthentication mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into the input device, including biometric authentication, user profile management, and adaptive configuration. The same device structure serves both as an input interface and an authentication system, eliminating the need for separate security devices while enhancing security and user-specific customization.

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

3Productivity

If general-purpose input devices are used across multiple applications, then device simplicity is maintained, but application-specific optimization and efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidapplication-specific configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-configures multiple application-specific profiles within the input device, each optimized for particular applications (such as programming, data entry, or design work). When a user selects an application, the device automatically loads the corresponding pre-configured layout and settings, enabling immediate optimization without manual reconfiguration and enhancing operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables flexible, secure, and efficient input operations tailored to individual user preferences and applications, enhancing user experience and security by authenticating users and configuring systems accordingly.

Implementation Method 1

Dynamic RFID-based input devices with manually activated RFID tags and customizable layouts that transmit data wirelessly to input stations

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRFID (Radio Frequency Identification): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9996167B2Dynamic RFID-based input devices
Publication Date: 2018.06.12 AMAZON TECH INC
  • US9996167B2 patent drawing
  • US9996167B2 patent drawing
  • US9996167B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A dynamic RFID-based input device may include an input surface and an input station. The input surface may include a plurality of RFID transmitting devices provided on at least one flexible layer, and the input station may include one or more RFID receiving devices, e.g., antennas and/or readers, provided in communication with a computing system or network. A worker may contact one or more portions of the input surface, and thereby cause one or more of the RFID transmitting devices to transmit one or more RFID signals including information, data, commands or instructions to be provided to the RFID receiving devices. Audible, visible or haptic feedback may be provided to the worker in response to the transmission of the one or more RFID signals.