Geospatial Device Movement Detection via Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preventing theft of mobile computing devices, such as tethers, are cumbersome and do not adequately protect sensitive information, as they limit device portability and do not effectively address the risk of unauthorized access during user sessions.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses geospatial and physical property data from sensors on mobile devices to detect movement and proximity changes, triggering a second operational mode that locks the device, alerts the user, or erases data if the device is taken out of a predetermined area, thereby protecting sensitive information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tether is used to prevent theft of mobile computing devices, then device security is improved, but device portability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tether system with an electronic/geospatial monitoring system that uses sensors, GPS, and software to detect device movement and trigger security responses, eliminating the need for physical constraints while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary monitoring system that acts between the device and potential thieves, using geospatial tracking and sensor data to detect unauthorized movement and trigger security measures without requiring physical attachment
2Ease of manufacture
If inactivity timeout is set to comply with regulatory requirements, then compliance is improved, but security against theft is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing geospatial monitoring and movement detection before theft can occur, triggering immediate security responses when unauthorized movement is detected, rather than waiting for inactivity timeout periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from sensors and geospatial data to continuously monitor device location and movement, providing real-time information that triggers security responses based on actual device status rather than fixed timeout schedules
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
Effectively monitors and protects mobile devices by ensuring that if they are removed from a designated area, the device enters a secure mode, preventing unauthorized access and protecting user data.
Implementation Method 1
obtains altitude data from a first sensor responsive to a change in altitude of the mobile computing device
Implementation Method 2
obtains pressure data from a second sensor responsive to a change in a pressure of the location of the mobile computing device
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and apparatuses, including computer program products, are described for detecting movement of a mobile computing device based upon geospatial data about a property location of the mobile computing device. The mobile computing device generates a baseline geospatial profile including baseline altitude data, baseline pressure data, and a predetermined pressure range. The mobile computing device enters a first operational mode permitting a user to establish a user session on the mobile computing device. The mobile computing device obtains altitude data from a first sensor and pressure data from a second sensor, and generates a geospatial signature based upon the altitude data and the pressure data. The mobile computing device compares the geospatial signature and the baseline geospatial profile, and enters a second operational mode if a difference between one or more corresponding values of the baseline geospatial profile and the geospatial signature exceeds a predetermined threshold.