HVAC authentication system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC systems lack robust security measures for accessing and controlling their functions, particularly in wireless communication scenarios, which can lead to unauthorized access and misuse.
Innovation Solution
An authentication system that requires users to perform a specific sequence of operational instructions on the HVAC system's thermostat, combined with proximity-based pairing and a three-digit code entry, to ensure authorized access and operation, providing an additional layer of security beyond traditional proximity-based methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional proximity-based access methods are used for HVAC systems, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened due to unauthorized access risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system requires users to complete a sequence of preliminary operational instructions (such as turning the system on/off, adjusting temperature settings) before gaining access to control functions. This preliminary action verifies that the user has physical access to and knowledge of the HVAC system's basic operation, thereby authenticating their identity before granting wireless control access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication layer between physical proximity and system control access. Instead of directly granting access based on proximity, the system mediates through a verification process that checks whether the user can successfully complete operational tasks, acting as an intermediary gatekeeper that balances security requirements with operational convenience.
2Reliability
If no authentication system is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened allowing unauthorized control
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC system performs self-authentication by automatically monitoring and analyzing the sequence of operational instructions executed by the user. The system serves itself by verifying its own security requirements through the operational sequence, eliminating the need for external authentication hardware or complex third-party verification systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of access control from a simple binary state (access granted/denied) to a multi-stage process where access rights are dynamically assigned based on successful completion of operational tasks. This parameter transformation allows the system to maintain security while avoiding the complexity of traditional authentication mechanisms.
3Reliability
If basic operational sequence verification is required, then security is improved, but productivity is worsened due to additional authentication steps
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial authentication by requiring only a specific sequence of basic operational instructions rather than complete system operation or extensive verification procedures. This partial action approach provides sufficient security verification without requiring the user to perform excessive operations, thereby maintaining service efficiency while achieving authorization 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 ensuring only authorized personnel can access and control HVAC systems wirelessly, preventing unauthorized access and misuse while simplifying the service process for technicians through intuitive software interfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid transitioning from gas to liquid releases heat
Implementation Method 2
a fluid transitioning from gas to liquid releases heat
Implementation Method 3
a fluid transitioning from liquid to gas absorbs heat
Implementation Method 4
a fluid transitioning from liquid to gas absorbs heat
Implementation Method 5
designed to transfer heat between the circulating refrigerant and flowing ambient air
Data Source
AI summary
An authentication method and system for an HVAC system are provided. Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an access-control or authentication system for an HVAC system, in which access to certain functions of the HVAC system is conditioned on a user performing certain basic operational instructions for the HVAC system in a provided sequence, thereby providing evidence that the user has authorization to access and operate the HVAC system wirelessly.