Exercise Device Connection Authorization With Lockout Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise devices lack effective mechanisms to ensure secure and authorized operation, particularly when connected to third-party devices, which can lead to unauthorized use and potential safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
An exercise device controller that verifies the authorization of third-party devices through unique identifiers, user authentication, and network connectivity, locking out unauthorized devices and preventing operation when necessary, while allowing authorized devices to adjust settings and monitor connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If exercise devices allow connection to third-party devices, then ease of operation and versatility are improved, but security and authorization control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise device performs preliminary authorization actions before allowing connection. The controller checks whether a third-party device is authorized to control the exercise device before enabling communication, preventing unauthorized devices from accessing the system in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authorization mechanism between the exercise device and third-party devices. The controller acts as a mediator that verifies authorization status and manages the connection, ensuring that only authorized devices can control the exercise device while maintaining security
2Reliability
If exercise devices implement authorization verification, then security and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise device controller performs self-service authorization verification using its own processing capabilities. The controller independently determines whether a third-party device is authorized without requiring external authentication systems, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational state parameter of the exercise device based on authorization status. When an unauthorized device is detected, the controller changes the state to locked mode, preventing operation. This parameter-based control simplifies the complexity management by using clear state transitions
3Reliability
If exercise devices lock operation when unauthorized devices are detected, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise device provides feedback to users about the authorization status. When an unauthorized device is detected, the controller communicates the locked state to the user, allowing them to understand the situation and take appropriate action, such as using an authorized device to verify or change the exercise device state
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise device controller may receive a connection request to connect a third-party device to an exercise device. The exercise device controller may determine whether the third-party device is an authorized third-party device. When the third-party device is not an authorized third-party device, the exercise device controller may prevent operation of the exercise device. Additionally, or alternatively, the exercise device controller may operate the exercise device while connected to a third-party device, the third-party device including an identification that is authorized to adjust one or more exercise device settings of the exercise device. The exercise device controller may determine that the third-party device has been disconnected from the exercise device and, based on the third-party device being disconnected from the exercise device, may lock operation of the exercise device.