Mobile Device Sensor-Based Authentication via Audio Visual Signals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional authentication methods for secure wireless connections between mobile devices and host networks require manual input of alphanumeric codes, which is cumbersome and vulnerable to unauthorized access due to signal extension beyond intended ranges.
Innovation Solution
A method for automatic local authentication using authentication key information transmitted via passive sensors, such as microphones or cameras, within the mobile device, allowing secure wireless radio frequency data connections by encoding key information in audio or visual signals imperceptible to humans, enabling secure encryption between the network access point and mobile device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual authentication methods are used, then security can be maintained through key input, but user convenience deteriorates due to cumbersome manual input requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical input (typing codes) with optical sensing (camera-based code detection). The mobile device automatically captures and processes authentication codes through its camera and image processing capabilities, eliminating the need for manual keyboard input while maintaining security through the same authentication mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication system performs self-service by automatically detecting, processing, and submitting authentication codes without user intervention. The mobile device's camera automatically captures the code, the processor automatically decodes and processes it, and the system automatically completes authentication, freeing the user from manual operations.
2Area of stationary object
If wireless signals are transmitted over extended ranges, then communication coverage is improved, but security deteriorates due to unauthorized access from distant locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism (visual code exchange) that mediates between the wireless communication system and security requirements. The code serves as an intermediary verification layer that must be manually or automatically exchanged and validated, adding a security checkpoint that prevents unauthorized devices from simply connecting within the extended wireless range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary authentication through code exchange before establishing secure wireless communication. This preliminary action verifies device authorization in advance, ensuring that only authenticated devices can access the network even when signals extend beyond the intended physical boundaries.
3Ease of operation
If automatic authentication is implemented, then user convenience is improved by eliminating manual input, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal multi-functionality of modern mobile devices by using their existing camera and image processing capabilities for authentication purposes. Rather than adding dedicated authentication hardware, the system repurposes components already present in the device for multiple functions (photography, video, and authentication code detection), minimizing additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the device's existing imaging and processing capabilities to create a copy of the authentication verification process. Instead of requiring new specialized sensors, the camera captures visual information that is then processed through existing image recognition algorithms, effectively copying the authentication function using available resources.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates secure, automatic, and localized authentication of mobile devices with host networks, enhancing security by preventing unauthorized access and reducing manual input requirements, while maintaining secure communication within intended ranges.
Implementation Method 1
presenting authentication key information via a communication medium within a network connection access point... the authentication key information configured for reception via a passive sensor within the mobile device
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed for use of a passive sensor within a mobile device as a separate authentication mechanism to exchange a secure key with a desired network. A network access point presents an encoded bit stream via an audio signal over an audio channel or a video signal within a video presentation. Each signal type is configured for reception by a passive sensor on the mobile device. This received information would be used to generate the private key within the mobile device for encrypting the wireless communication channel. Only mobile devices within audio or visual range of the presentation may be authenticated and thus securely connected to the network.