Implant Relay Authentication for Secure Encrypted Instructions
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for secure and reliable communication methods for medical implants to protect sensitive data and ensure authorized control, as existing technologies lack effective solutions for secure data transfer and program updates.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an implant with an internal computing unit, a reset function, and a communication unit that allows switching between control programs, using wireless or conductive communication, and encryption methods to secure data transfer and control operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the implant stores multiple control programs and allows switching between them, then the adaptability and security of the implant is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control software into multiple separate control programs stored in internal memory. Each control program can be independently executed, allowing the implant to switch between different functional states or security levels without requiring complete reprogramming, thus managing complexity through modular software organization
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of the implant by switching between different control programs stored in memory. This allows the same hardware to operate in different modes (e.g., normal operation, secure mode, update mode) by loading different software configurations, enhancing adaptability without hardware changes
2Ease of operation
If the implant uses wireless communication to transfer data and control information, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security and reliability of data transfer deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an external device as an intermediary that facilitates secure communication between the implant and external systems. This intermediary handles encryption, authentication, and secure data transfer protocols, allowing the implant to maintain simple wireless communication capabilities while delegating security functions to the external device
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary authentication and encryption setup before actual data transfer occurs. Control programs and sensitive data are protected with encryption keys established in advance, ensuring that wireless communication remains easy to use while maintaining security through pre-configured protective measures
3Adaptability or versatility
If the implant allows remote updates to control programs, then the adaptability is improved, but the risk of unauthorized access and harmful factors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication and verification mechanisms before allowing remote updates. The implant verifies the authenticity and integrity of incoming control programs using cryptographic signatures and authentication protocols, preventing unauthorized or malicious code from being installed while maintaining the ability to receive legitimate updates
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the implant communicates with external devices to verify update authenticity, report system status, and receive authentication tokens. This feedback loop ensures that only authorized updates are applied and provides continuous monitoring to detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts
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
This solution provides secure communication and control of medical implants by switching between control programs and using encryption, ensuring authorized access and protecting sensitive data.
Implementation Method 1
The internal communication unit comprises an internal wireless transceiver for communicating wirelessly with said external device
Implementation Method 2
The internal communication unit is configured to be in electrical connection with said external device and communicate with said external device using a body of a patient, in which the implant is implanted, as a conductor
Data Source
AI summary
An external device for relaying communication between a second external device and an implant implanted in a patient. The external device comprises a wireless transceiver configured for wireless communication with the second external device and the implant, the wireless transceiver being configured to receive an instruction from the second external device. The wireless transceiver is configured to transmit the instruction to the implant. A verification unit configured to receive authentication input from a user, for authenticating a relaying functionality of the external device, the wireless transceiver is configured to, upon authentication of the relaying functionality of the external device, cause the wireless transceiver to transmit the instruction to the implant. Upon non-authentication or failed authentication of the relaying functionality of the external device, cause the external device to hold the instructions, wherein the instruction received at the external device is encrypted, and wherein the external device is configured to transmit the instruction to the implant without decrypting the instruction.