Locked Element Authorization in Graphical Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Graphical modeling environments lack the ability to securely restrict access to certain elements or blocks within a block diagram model, allowing unauthorized users to access and modify sensitive implementation details, which can compromise proprietary information.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a locked element within a block diagram model that requires authorization to access its functionality, using multiple levels of authorization and obfuscation techniques to prevent unauthorized use, and providing a graphical interface for users to input authentication credentials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If graphical modeling environments allow full access to all elements and blocks, then ease of operation and functionality are improved, but security and protection of proprietary information deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the functionality of graphical elements by introducing multiple authorization levels (first level, second level, third level) that divide access rights into distinct tiers. Each element can have different authorization levels assigned to different functionalities, allowing the system to grant partial access while protecting sensitive operations. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling broad operational access while maintaining security through fine-grained control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different authorization levels to be assigned to specific functionalities within individual elements rather than uniformly across the entire system. Each element can have its own set of authorized operations based on user credentials, enabling security restrictions to be applied locally to specific sensitive functions while leaving other functions fully accessible. This resolves the contradiction by protecting only the necessary proprietary information while maintaining overall system operability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple levels of authorization are implemented, then security and protection of proprietary information are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal authorization framework that can be applied to any element within the graphical modeling environment regardless of element type or function. The same authorization mechanism (checking user credentials against stored authorization levels) handles all elements uniformly, from simple blocks to complex subsystems. This multi-functionality reduces complexity by providing a single, consistent security approach rather than requiring separate security mechanisms for different element types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically checking user credentials and determining authorized operations without requiring manual intervention or complex administrative overhead. When a user attempts to access an element, the system autonomously verifies their authorization level and either grants or denies access based on the stored credentials, eliminating the need for manual security management and reducing operational complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If access to element functionality is restricted, then security and proprietary information protection are improved, but productivity and system functionality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic authorization where access rights are not fixed but can change based on user credentials and context. The system dynamically evaluates user credentials against stored authorization levels at the time of access attempts, allowing flexible granting or denying of operations. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by enabling productivity through automatic authorization decisions while maintaining security through contextual access control, rather than using static restrictions that would impede workflow.
Data Source
AI summary
In a graphical modeling environment, a method of providing varying levels of protection relating to functionalities associated with at least some elements of a block diagram model, the method including: receiving a selection of one of the elements; receiving an indication of a desired authorization required to use at least one function of the selected element; implementing the indicated authorization for the use of the at least one function; and preventing, without obtaining of the authorization, an attempted use of the at least one function.