Network Access Point UWB Location Safe Zone Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices without user interfaces, such as keyboards, face challenges in connecting to networks and updating network credentials, as they require manual input, which is inconvenient, especially for consumer devices that are not technically proficient and may be difficult to access physically.
Innovation Solution
A network access point uses ultra-wideband (UWB) wireless communication and received signal strength measurements to determine the location of connected devices, providing a graphical representation of their positions on a map, allowing users to define a safe zone, and automatically controls access and credential management based on device location within this zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual credential input is used for devices without user interfaces, then network connection can be established, but user convenience deteriorates and operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing devices to automatically obtain and update network credentials without manual user input. The access point autonomously manages credential distribution to devices within the safe zone, eliminating the need for users to manually configure connection settings on devices lacking user interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The access point acts as an intermediary between the network and devices without user interfaces. It receives credential updates from the network administrator and automatically distributes them to authorized devices, mediating the credential management process and eliminating the need for direct manual input on device terminals.
2Ease of operation
If network credentials are automatically distributed to all connected devices, then connection convenience is improved, but security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements local quality by creating a spatially differentiated credential distribution mechanism. The safe zone is defined with specific geometric boundaries, and credential access rights are locally applied only within this designated area. Devices outside the safe zone cannot receive credentials, creating a spatial security boundary that maintains convenience for authorized devices while preventing unauthorized access.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If geographic location verification is implemented for access control, then security is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical or manual verification mechanisms with wireless signal-based geographic location verification. Instead of requiring physical presence verification or manual authentication, the system uses the device's wireless communication capabilities to determine its geographic position relative to the safe zone boundaries, automatically granting or denying access based on location data.
4Measurement precision
If multiple distance measurement methods are used to determine device location, then location precision is improved, but measurement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple distance measurement methods by having the access point simultaneously utilize both the directly measured distance to the device and the distance reported by the device through UWB communication with other devices. These multiple measurement data sources are combined to triangulate and verify the device's geographic position, improving location precision through cross-validation of measurement results.
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
This method enables devices to connect to and maintain network access without manual user input, ensuring only authorized devices within the safe zone receive credentials, enhancing security and convenience by eliminating the need for manual credential entry and updates.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of a first device of the plurality of connected devices and a second device of the plurality of connected devices measuring the distance between the first device and the second device using ultra-wideband, UWB, wireless communication between said devices
Implementation Method 2
the network access point measuring the distance between the network access point and at least one of the first connected device and the second connected device using a measure of received signal strength received from said at least one of the first connected device and the second connected device
Data Source
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AI summary
At least one of a first device (20) and a second device (20) of a plurality of devices (20) wirelessly connected to a network access point (10) measure the distance between said devices (20) using ultra-wideband, UWB, wireless communication and send data for said distance to the network access point (10). The network access point (10) measures the distance between the network access point (10) and at least one of said devices (20) using a measure of received signal strength. The network access point (10) determines the location of said devices (20) based on the distances. The network access point (10) provides a graphical representation of the location of said devices (20) in the form of a map (50). The network access point (10) receives an input from a user that defines a safe zone (30) on the map (50) and controls access to the network access point (10) by a device (20) in dependence on whether or not the device (20) is located within the safe zone (30).