Hearing Device Model Control via Digital Signature Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hearing device manufacturers face challenges in controlling and authorizing different software versions for various hearing device models, leading to issues with secure payment and unauthorized fitting or model updates.
Innovation Solution
A hearing device with a processing unit and memory unit that includes a hearing device identifier and model data, allowing verification and update of models, ensuring only authorized models are used and preventing unauthorized fitting or cloning by using digital signatures and verification criteria based on the hearing device identifier, model name, and model identifier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the same hardware is used for different hearing device models, then production costs are reduced, but the ability to control and authorize different software versions is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the hearing device into hardware and software/model components. The hardware remains identical across models, while the model identifier and software are separable and independently controllable. This allows using the same hardware for different models while maintaining authorization control through unique model identifiers stored in memory.
Solution Approach 2:
A model identifier acts as an intermediary between the hardware and software, enabling the system to distinguish between different models using identical hardware. The model identifier, stored in memory and verified by the processing unit, mediates the relationship between the physical device and its authorized software functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If model data is stored in the hearing device, then model updates can be performed, but the risk of unauthorized fitting or cloning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification of the model identifier before allowing any model updates or operations. The processing unit checks the stored model identifier against authorized models before executing any changes, preventing unauthorized fitting before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the processing unit continuously verifies the model identifier stored in memory before allowing operations. This verification feedback loop ensures that only authorized models can be updated or operated, preventing unauthorized cloning or fitting attempts.
3Reliability
If verification of model data is performed at start-up, then unauthorized models are prevented from operating, but the device cannot proceed to normal operation if verification fails
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically responds to verification results. If verification succeeds, the device proceeds to normal operation. If verification fails, the device enters model update mode, allowing dynamic adjustment of the model identifier. This dynamic behavior maintains both security verification and operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational state based on verification results. Upon successful verification, the device operates in normal mode. Upon failed verification, it transitions to model update mode where the model identifier can be modified. This parameter change in operational mode resolves the contradiction between verification and operation continuity.
Data Source
AI summary
A hearing device includes: a processing unit, wherein the processing unit is a part of the hearing device that is configured to provide sound for reception by a user of the hearing device; and a memory unit, wherein the memory unit is configured to store data that is associated with the hearing device; wherein the hearing device is configured to communicate with an electronic device; wherein the processing unit is configured to: obtain information from the electronic device, the information associated with a verification performed based on the data, and allow the hearing device to be set based on the information from the electronic device; and wherein the data comprises a hearing device identifier, and wherein the verification is based on the hearing device identifier.