Mobile Device Handwriting Lock Release via Character Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mobile device lock methods require multiple user input operations and offer low security due to simple combination patterns, leading to user dissatisfaction and inadequate protection of personal information.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing handwriting recognition to release the lock state and execute functions on a mobile device, incorporating an input unit with touch, proximity, and electromagnetic sensors to detect and verify user inputs, and a controller with verification and character recognition modules to authenticate users and execute corresponding instructions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional lock patterns using nine points arranged in matrix form are used, then the lock mechanism is simple to implement, but the security level is low due to simple combinations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity levelVSAvoidlock mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameter of the input method from geometric pattern recognition (nine-point matrix) to handwriting character recognition. This allows the use of alphanumeric characters and special symbols, dramatically increasing the combination space and security level while maintaining a similar interface structure (touchscreen display with input area).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/geometric pattern locking system with an optical recognition system (handwriting recognition). Instead of relying on the physical arrangement of nine points, the system uses character recognition technology to verify user input, thereby enhancing security without significantly increasing device hardware complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If conventional lock release methods requiring specific pattern input are used, then the lock provides basic security, but the number of user input operations is large leading to inconvenient operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser input operationsVSAvoidsecurity level
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary handwriting recognition and verification before lock release. The user's handwriting is captured and verified against stored templates in advance, allowing for a more intuitive and faster unlock process compared to drawing complex geometric patterns, while maintaining or enhancing security through character-based verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If multiple user input operations are required to operate the mobile device from lock state to application execution, then basic security is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation stepsVSAvoidtime to execute application
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the lock release function with the application launch function. By recognizing handwriting that corresponds to a specific application name or keyword, the system simultaneously unlocks the device and launches the desired application in one operation, eliminating the separate steps of unlocking followed by application selection, thereby reducing time loss and improving operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3493089B1Mobile device, and method for releasing lock of the mobile device via handwriting recognition
Publication Date: 2023.11.08 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3493089B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3493089B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3493089B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method, and a mobile device adapted thereto, verifies a user and executes applications via handwriting recognition. The method of controlling a mobile device includes entering a lock state, detecting a user's input, verifying a user based on the input and searching for an instruction corresponding to the input, and performing at least one of maintaining or releasing the lock state and which performs an operation corresponding to the instruction, based on user verification result and the instruction search result.