Geocache Verifier Using Dynamic Time-Based Credentials
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for verifying geocache discoveries are prone to errors, fraud, and are difficult to implement, especially in remote locations without access to power or internet, and often rely on manual or insecure methods such as log books, photo verification, and portable memory devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a verifier embedded in the geocache to generate a dynamically varying identifier, which is unique to both the geocache and a specific time interval, allowing for dual-factor authentication and verification through a user device and server, ensuring the authenticity of the discovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual log book verification is used, then users can prove cache discovery, but verification is time-consuming and subject to fraud
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual log book verification with an automated electronic verification system. The verifier device generates dynamic credentials that are automatically validated by a server, eliminating the need for manual log book collection and inspection. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with automated electronic systems resolves the contradiction by improving reliability through automation while reducing verification time.
Solution Approach 2:
The verifier device at the cache location performs self-verification by generating and validating credentials automatically. The system serves itself by comparing credentials without requiring organizer intervention, thus improving reliability while eliminating time loss associated with manual verification processes.
2Reliability
If photo verification is used, then discovery can be verified, but it is subject to forgery and difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces photo verification with an electronic credential-based verification system. Instead of requiring users to take and submit photos that must be manually reviewed for authenticity, the system uses automated generation and validation of dynamic credentials. This eliminates forgery risks while maintaining simplicity through automation.
3Extent of automation
If webcam or video monitoring is used, then automated verification is possible, but it requires electricity and Internet access which are unavailable in remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The verifier device operates autonomously at the cache location without requiring external power or Internet infrastructure. It generates and validates credentials locally, making the system adaptable to remote locations while maintaining full automation. The device serves itself by performing verification functions independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the verification functionality from dependency on external infrastructure (electricity and Internet). The verifier device performs all verification operations locally without requiring connection to external systems, enabling deployment in remote locations while maintaining automation.
4Loss of information
If portable non-volatile memory devices are used, then verification data can be stored, but security concerns arise from unsecured cache locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts verification data from physical storage media (memory devices) and stores it electronically in secure databases. The verifier generates credentials that are validated against server-stored information, eliminating the need for physical memory devices at unsecured cache locations and thereby improving security reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for verifying a discovery of a geocache positioned at one or more physical locations is disclosed. The method comprises providing a first location information corresponding to a first geocache located at a first physical position; receiving from a user device a target credential corresponding to the geocache, wherein the target credential comprises a dynamically varying identifier associated with the geocache; determining a validation credential associated with the geocache; comparing the target credential with the validation credential; and determining whether the geocache was discovered.