Modular Phone Interface for Secure Multi-Protocol Accessories

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable communication devices face challenges in efficiently managing and securing increased functionality and data access, with existing solutions lacking comprehensive protocols for module integration and power management, as well as adequate security measures.

Innovation Solution

A portable communication device with a modular design that includes an interface connector for coupling modules, enabling communication through multiple protocols, battery management, and encryption, allowing for secure and flexible addition of accessory functions while ensuring power efficiency and security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple communication protocols are implemented for module integration, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule integration capabilityVSAvoidcommunication protocol management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The processor is designed to support multiple communication protocols (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB) within a single integrated unit, enabling the portable communication device to universally interface with different types of modules through a standardized interface connector, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If accessory modules are added to enhance functionality, then device functionality is improved, but security risks increase due to increased data access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidsecurity exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The processor acts as an intermediary between the accessory modules and the core device functions, mediating all data access requests through controlled interfaces. This intermediary role enables the system to selectively grant or deny access based on security policies, thus allowing enhanced functionality while maintaining security control over data exposure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Duration of action of moving object

If multiple power sources are supported for extended battery life, then duration of action is improved, but device complexity increases through additional power management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery lifeVSAvoidpower management system
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power management functionality is merged into the existing processor unit rather than being implemented as a separate dedicated system. The processor integrates battery detection, charging control, and power distribution management for multiple power sources (device battery and accessory module battery) within its existing architecture, thereby extending battery life without proportionally increasing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3518512B1Portable communication devices with accessory functions and related methods
Publication Date: 2023.08.23 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

Portable communication devices and related methods for use in supporting voice and/or data communication are provided. One example portable communication device includes a housing, a display device disposed at said housing, a processor disposed at least partially within said housing, the processor coupled to said display device, and an interface connector disposed at said housing and coupled to said processor. The interface connector is configured to couple to a module. The processor is configured to communicate, through said interface connector, via a plurality of communication protocols. The processor is configured to select at least one of the plurality of communication protocols based on the module coupled to the interface connector.