Microminiature Computer Security via Interface Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current small form-factor computers face limitations in size due to the need for user interfaces, and existing portable computers without interfaces either require special hosting devices or pose security risks by allowing unauthorized interactions with external devices.
Innovation Solution
A microminiature personal computer with a processor, memory, security module, and network module in a small form factor, such as a USB flash drive, that performs all processing and connects to external devices only through an encrypted network for input and output, ensuring security by isolating memory access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional user interface devices (screen, keyboard) are included in small form-factor computers, then usability is improved, but device size cannot be reduced beyond certain limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the user interface functions from the portable computer itself and relocates them to external host devices. The microminiature personal computer contains only essential processing components (processor, memory, security module, network module) while relying on external devices for display, keyboard, and other interface functions, thereby achieving extreme miniaturization without sacrificing usability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the portable computer universally compatible with various external host devices (personal computers, workstations, mainframes) through standardized connectors and communication protocols. This allows a single microminiature device to function across multiple computing platforms, eliminating the need for dedicated interface components for each device type
2Adaptability or versatility
If portable computers without user interface are made to expand external device functions, then device versatility is improved, but security risks increase due to unauthorized interactions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an encrypted network connection as an intermediary layer between the microminiature personal computer and external devices. This security layer enables versatile communication and interaction with various external devices while preventing unauthorized access and protecting data integrity, thus resolving the security risk associated with expanded device functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements differentiated access control where different portions of the portable computer's functionality are accessible under different security conditions. The security module restricts access to critical areas while allowing controlled interaction with external devices, providing local security zones that protect sensitive operations while maintaining overall system versatility
3Volume of moving object
If processing is done by host computer in portable platforms, then device size is reduced, but program execution freedom is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the computing system into two distinct functional parts: the microminiature personal computer handles program execution and processing operations, while the external host device provides interface and support functions. This segmentation allows the portable device to maintain full processing capabilities and program execution freedom while keeping the overall system size minimal
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables the microminiature personal computer to be self-sufficient in processing operations, executing programs independently without requiring the host computer to perform computational tasks. The portable device services itself by handling all processing internally, while only utilizing external devices for non-critical interface functions
Data Source
AI summary
A microminiature personal computer that is connected to external devices using standard interfaces for information input and output. The microminiature personal computer has an interconnected processor, a memory, a security module, a network module, and connectors. At least part of memory should be non-volatile to keep operating system, drivers to work with external devices, programs and data. The microminiature personal computer does all its processing and all its programs are running inside its memory while external computing device is used only for information input and output through a connector and a windowing system thus ensuring security of both systems and lack of unauthorized interaction between them.