Master Unit Access Device Authentication Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems lack secure authentication of controllers and dependent operation, making communication less safe and limiting interoperability with external control devices.
Innovation Solution
A method for an independent control system where a master unit, configured as an access device, authenticates external control devices and processes unique addresses of slave units, enabling secure communication and operation while allowing external control devices to access and control slave units safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mobile communication terminal is used to control a controller, then communication convenience is improved, but security is worsened due to lack of authentication of the controller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism where the controlled apparatus authenticates the controller by checking a code key stored in the controller against a registered code key. This intermediary verification step ensures security while allowing convenient wireless communication control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through authentication responses where the controller receives authentication status information from the controlled apparatus. This feedback mechanism allows the controller to know whether authentication succeeded, enabling secure operation while maintaining user convenience.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a controller is dependent on another device for operation, then control functionality is improved, but system independence is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into independent controllers that can operate autonomously. Each controller has its own code key and can independently authenticate and control devices, eliminating dependency on a central control device while maintaining control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The controllers are designed to perform self-authentication and self-control operations. The controller stores its own code key and can independently verify authentication status, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external control devices.
3Ease of operation
If external control devices are allowed to access slave units directly, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened due to exposure of unique addresses
Solution Approach 1:
The master unit configured as an access device serves as an intermediary between external control devices and slave units. It authenticates external devices and retrieves unique addresses of slave units before transmitting control signals, preventing direct access while maintaining operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary authentication and address retrieval actions before allowing control signals to reach slave units. The master unit pre-processes authentication and address management, ensuring security is established before any control operation occurs.
4Reliability
If authentication mechanisms are implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses code keys as simplified copies of authentication credentials. Instead of complex authentication protocols, the system uses stored code key comparisons, which are simple copying and matching operations that provide security without significant complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication complexity is extracted and centralized in the master unit configured as an access device. Individual slave units and controllers only need to store and compare simple code keys, while the complex authentication logic is separated and managed by the access device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of operating a controller configured to control an independent control system (3). The independent control system (3) comprises at least two units wherein at least one of said units is designed to operate as a master unit (26, 30, 34, 62, 72) and wherein at least one of said units is designed to operate as a slave unit (2, 4, 6, 8, 60, 70), wherein at least one of said at least one master unit (26, 30, 34, 62, 72) further is configured as an access device, which can communicate with one or more external control units (64, 74, ECD, ECD1, ECD2, ECD3, ECDn), which are external to said first independent control system 3.