Gesture Authentication for Companion Devices via Biometric Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern portable electronic devices with touch-sensitive displays become complex to operate due to the need for navigating multiple menu tiers and user interfaces, especially when executing complex operations on companion devices that require authentication.
Innovation Solution
The integration of biometric sensors in electronic devices with motion or proximity sensors allows for secure and simplified authentication using gestures, eliminating the need for direct user interaction with companion devices by delivering authentication credentials wirelessly after biometric verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If touch-sensitive displays and multiple menu tiers are used to enable complex operations, then device functionality and versatility are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces gesture recognition as an intermediary interface between the user and the device's complex software hierarchy. Instead of navigating through multiple menu tiers, users perform natural gestures (e.g., rotating the device, hand movements) that are translated into device commands by the gesture recognition system, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining full device functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical interaction methods (physical keyboards, buttons, and menu navigation) with gesture-based control. This substitution allows complex operations to be executed through intuitive physical gestures captured by motion sensors, reducing the cognitive load and operational steps required while preserving access to all device functions
2Reliability
If direct user interaction with companion devices is required for authentication, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces gesture recognition as an intermediary authentication mechanism. Instead of requiring direct interaction with the companion device's authentication interface, the user performs gestures with the primary device that are transmitted to and processed by the companion device, serving as a secure yet convenient authentication method
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses gesture patterns as a form of behavioral copy or signature. Specific gesture sequences (e.g., rotation direction, speed, pattern) serve as unique authentication identifiers, similar to how traditional passwords or biometrics function, but with the added convenience of being performed naturally without direct device interaction
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a biometric sensor, such as a fingerprint sensor, to identify biometric input. One or more processors are then operable to identify at least one paired device and at least one companion device operating within a wireless communication radius. The paired device then detects and identifies a simple gesture, communicating this in an electronic communication to a wireless communication circuit of the electronic device. The one or more processors then identify at least one authentication agent operating on the at least one companion device and select at least one authentication credential for the at least one authentication agent. The wireless communication circuit then delivers an authentication credential in response to the predefined gesture input.