Location-Based Wireless Authentication System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current user authentication methods for secure computer applications are susceptible to unauthorized access, cumbersome, and inefficient, particularly in environments where physical contact with a keyboard is required or sterility is a concern, and existing location-based authentication systems have limitations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for authenticating users using a mobile access point and a wireless device associated with the user, where a single user action activates an invocation element, obtaining the device's location, determining authorization, and approving access based on predetermined criteria, thereby enhancing security and convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional username and password authentication is used, then user identity can be verified, but the system is susceptible to unauthorized access and identity theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the authentication parameters from static knowledge factors (passwords) to dynamic location-based factors. The system obtains the wireless device's location and compares it against predetermined location criteria, transforming authentication from password verification to geographic verification, thereby enhancing security against unauthorized access and identity theft
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces location-based services and wireless device location data as an intermediary authentication mechanism. Instead of directly verifying passwords, the system uses location information obtained through wireless networks and location-based services as a mediator to verify user identity and authorization, adding a security layer that prevents unauthorized access
2Reliability
If frequent password entry is required, then authentication security is maintained, but user convenience and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service authentication where the system automatically obtains location information from the wireless device and performs authorization verification without requiring manual password entry. The user simply needs to activate the invocation element, and the system handles the entire authentication process automatically by retrieving location data and comparing it against stored criteria
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical action of typing passwords with automatic electronic location verification. Instead of requiring physical keyboard interaction and manual password entry, the system uses automated location-based authentication through wireless devices, eliminating the need for frequent manual authentication inputs while maintaining security
3Ease of operation
If physical contact with keyboard is required for password entry, then authentication can be performed, but sterility concerns and hygiene issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical keyboard interaction with contactless wireless authentication. The system obtains location information through wireless communication protocols and location-based services, eliminating the need for physical contact with keyboards or other input devices, thereby resolving hygiene and sterility concerns while maintaining authentication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless location data as an intermediary authentication mechanism that eliminates direct physical contact. Instead of requiring users to physically interact with keyboards to enter passwords, the system uses wireless location information as a mediator to verify identity, thereby preventing contamination while maintaining authentication functionality
4Reliability
If multiple authentication factors are required, then security is enhanced, but system complexity and operational time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the authentication process with the device's inherent location capabilities. By combining the invocation element activation with automatic location retrieval and verification against predetermined criteria, the system creates a unified authentication mechanism that enhances security without adding separate authentication components or increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the wireless device serve multiple functions: it acts as both the user interface for activating authentication and the source of location data for verification. This multi-functional approach allows the same device to handle both user interaction and authentication data provision, reducing the need for additional authentication hardware or systems
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for authenticating a user includes providing an invocation element capable of being activated by a single user action, receiving an indication that the invocation element has been activated, obtaining a location of a wireless device associated with the user, determining whether the wireless device is associated with an authorized user, approving the user to use the application based on a predetermined location criterion, and producing an indication that the user has been authenticated.