In-flight Secure Payment via 5G Picocell and SMS Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Low-cost carriers face challenges in implementing in-flight entertainment systems due to the high costs of equipment and connectivity for secure payment verification, which is essential for on-board content and services, especially given the need for connectivity to ground networks for credit card verification.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a 5G cellular picocell system on aircraft that connects user devices to a ground network using the 5G communication protocol, enabling secure payment verification through two-factor authentication, with encryption using asymmetric cryptographic algorithms to protect sensitive information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ground network connectivity is used for payment verification, then secure transactions can be achieved, but equipment cost and connectivity cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses SMS text messaging as a copy or alternative form of authentication delivery, replacing expensive dedicated authentication hardware with a ubiquitous mobile phone messaging system. The one-time passcode is copied into the SMS channel, allowing payment verification through a low-cost communication medium that leverages existing mobile phone infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic system of dedicated authentication hardware and satellite connectivity with an information-based system using SMS messaging. Instead of using specialized devices to deliver authentication codes, the system substitutes the well-established SMS text messaging infrastructure, dramatically reducing equipment costs while maintaining security.
2Adaptability or versatility
If satellite connectivity is used for on-board internet access, then payment verification is enabled, but equipment cost and monthly connectivity cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent copies the authentication communication into the SMS text messaging channel, which is already integrated into mobile phones and can operate over ground cellular networks. This eliminates the need for expensive satellite data connections, reducing monthly connectivity costs while maintaining the ability to verify payments during flight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the communication parameter from satellite data transmission to ground-based cellular SMS messaging. By transitioning from high-cost satellite data channels to low-cost terrestrial SMS networks, the system achieves on-board internet access capability at significantly reduced monthly connectivity costs.
3Reliability
If SMS text messaging is used for two-factor authentication, then payment verification security is maintained, but the system must work within mobile phone constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal nature of mobile phones, which already possess SMS capability as a core function. By using SMS for authentication, the system utilizes an existing universal feature of mobile devices rather than requiring specialized authentication hardware, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the mobile phone to serve itself by using its built-in SMS capability for authentication purposes. The phone's existing text messaging function is repurposed to deliver and receive one-time passcodes, eliminating the need for additional authentication hardware or complex setup procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for performing secure transactions in an aircraft are disclosed. Embodiments of the disclosed technology enable low cost carriers to provide payment verification for on-board purchases via the in-flight entertainment system. An exemplary method for performing secure transactions in an aircraft includes transmitting, by a user device in the aircraft using a wireless protocol, a first authentication factor and a request for one or more on-board services; receiving, from an on-board transceiver using the wireless protocol, an authentication token (a) comprising a one-time code and (b) encrypted using an asymmetric cryptographic algorithm; transmitting, using the asymmetric cryptographic algorithm, a second authentication factor comprising (a) the authentication token and (b) a text message transmitted from the user device; and receiving a confirmation of a delivery of the one or more on-board services.