Handheld Device Encryption Key Transmission via Display Light Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security methods for handheld communications devices, such as password-based access, are inadequate as they can be easily compromised if the password is guessable, lacking a high level of security.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a handheld communications device that generates and transmits a private encryption key to a portable authenticator using a display light, varying color and brightness sequences to securely initiate communication, ensuring only authorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If password-based security is used, then ease of operation is improved, but security level deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The security system is segmented into two independent components: a password (something the user knows) and a portable authenticator containing an encryption key (something the user possesses). Both components are required simultaneously for device access, dividing the security function into separate verification stages that must both succeed.
Solution Approach 2:
A portable authenticator device serves as an intermediary between the user and the protected device. This mediator contains a reference encryption key and communicates with the protected device to verify the user's identity, adding an intermediate security layer that prevents direct password-only access.
2Reliability
If encryption key transmission is performed, then security level is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or wired key exchange methods with optical communication. The encryption key is transmitted through light emitted by the display device and detected by a light sensor on the portable authenticator, substituting physical key distribution with an optical signaling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device serves multiple functions: it displays visual information to the user and simultaneously transmits encryption keys through light modulation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated key transmission hardware, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security.
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
Enhances security by requiring both the portable authenticator and the correct password for device access, preventing unauthorized use even if the password is easily guessed.
Implementation Method 1
varying an output of the display device over a period of time to transmit the encryption key from the handheld communications device
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld communications device and method for transmitting an encryption key are provided. The method comprises: generating an encryption key via the data processor, the encryption key comprising a bit sequence; and varying an output of the display device over a period of time to transmit the encryption key from the handheld communications device by varying at least one of a sequence at least one of colour rendered on the display device or a sequence of brightness levels output by the display device.