Multi-Level User Access Control for Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with screen lock functions do not effectively manage access to personal information and applications across multiple users, leading to exposure of inappropriate content, especially in shared devices or when used by children.
Innovation Solution
A method for configuring multiple user levels in an electronic device, where each user level is associated with different authority to access applications, allowing users to set passwords for respective user levels and release locks based on matching passwords and user levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single password protection is set up for the device, then the device can be secured from unauthorized access, but all users have authority to use all applications which exposes personal information to other users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the user authentication system into multiple user levels (e.g., child level, parent level, grandparent level), each with its own password and authorized application set. This segmentation allows the device to maintain security while preventing information exposure by ensuring each user can only access applications appropriate to their level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different access rights and authorization levels to different users based on their specific needs and relationships. Each user level has customized permissions for specific applications, creating localized quality control over information access rather than a uniform access policy for all users.
2Ease of operation
If all users have authority to use all applications, then the device is easy to operate for any user, but inappropriate information might be inadvertently viewable by young children
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the application library into different categories and assigns them to specific user levels. Children's devices can be configured with restricted access to only age-appropriate applications, while maintaining ease of operation for the child user within those constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows parents or administrators to pre-configure user levels and authorize specific applications for each level before children or other users attempt to access them. This preliminary action ensures that inappropriate content is blocked before children can inadvertently view it, while still providing easy access to approved content.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electronic device comprising a memory storing a program including instructions; a touchscreen; and a processor, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, causes the electronic device to: store, via the memory, a password for allowing change of details; in response to a received user request for changing details, receive a password input through a password input screen; if the received password corresponds to the stored password, provide on the touchscreen at least one guide screen for changing details; if the details are changed, register changed access configuration information in the memory; and control the touchscreen to display icons of unavailable applications for the user level in a distinguishing manner from icons of applications authorized for access.