Network-Controlled Device Function Management for Meeting Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a system and method to control functions of portable communication devices remotely to prevent unauthorized recording or data transmission in sensitive environments, as existing technologies do not adequately address security concerns related to the use of devices with camera and microphone capabilities during meetings or confidential discussions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize a server-based network to manage and control functions of electronic devices, allowing for the scheduling of meeting requests that include commands to deactivate or activate components like cameras and microphones based on predefined conditions, such as location and time, ensuring that these functions are controlled during meetings and reverted upon completion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If portable communication devices with camera and microphone capabilities are used, then communication and recording functions are enhanced, but security risks increase due to potential unauthorized recording in sensitive environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication and recording functionsVSAvoidsecurity risks
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically deactivating camera and microphone functions before a meeting starts and reactivating them after the meeting ends. This preventive measure eliminates security risks before they can occur, rather than reacting to unauthorized recording attempts after they happen.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses meeting schedule information as feedback to automatically control device functions. The calendar data provides timing information that triggers automatic activation and deactivation of camera and microphone, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to meeting contexts without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Object-affected harmful factors

If automatic function control during meetings is implemented, then security concerns are addressed, but device complexity increases due to integration with calendar and network systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveunauthorized recording preventionVSAvoidsystem integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a communication device and a calendar management system. By integrating these functions into a single device, the system avoids the need for separate dedicated security devices, thereby managing complexity while achieving security goals.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides self-service by automatically controlling camera and microphone functions based on calendar event data without requiring user intervention. The device monitors its own calendar, automatically deactivates functions during meetings, and reactivates them afterward, eliminating the need for manual security management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If manual control of device functions is required during meetings, then user flexibility is maintained, but productivity decreases due to additional user actions needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser control flexibilityVSAvoidtime efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service operation where the device automatically manages its own camera and microphone functions based on calendar event information. This eliminates the need for users to manually control these functions during meetings, saving time and improving productivity while maintaining the ability to override automatic control when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2557766B1System and method for controlling a function of an electronic device through a network
Publication Date: 2017.05.10 BLACKBERRY LTD
  • EP2557766B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2557766B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2557766B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The disclosure provides a system, method and device for controlling function on an electronic device. The method comprises: receiving a communication from a communication network at the first device, the communication addressed to an account accessed by the first device and providing a first request for a meeting, a start time for the meeting and a second request to control a function of the first device for the meeting; identifying a component on the first device associated with the function; and deactivating the component when the start time arrives on the first device.