Secure Data Transfer via Orientation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for transferring encryption keys in gaming or vending machines are prone to human error and vulnerable to fraud, as manual entry is time-consuming and can be intercepted by unauthorized individuals, while alternative methods using serial connections are also susceptible to key exposure during normal operation.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a detector to enable initialization data transfer based on the geometric orientation, angular position, or acceleration of a peripheral device, such as being upside down or moved in a specific sequence, to securely convey the encryption key, with a default mode preventing further transfers once the conditions are met, and a capacitive reservoir for powering the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual entry of encryption key via keypad is used, then the key can be inputted to the central processing unit, but it is extremely time consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical input method (keypad entry) with an automated optical scanning method. The camera captures an image of the encryption key from the peripheral device, and the processor automatically extracts and transfers the key data, eliminating manual typing and associated errors and time consumption.
2Ease of operation
If encryption key is transferred via serial connection, then the key can be conveyed between devices, but it is vulnerable to fraudsters obtaining the key during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical scanning mechanism that temporarily enables key transfer during installation. The camera and processor work together to capture and transfer the key in a controlled manner, then automatically disable the transfer capability, preventing fraudsters from obtaining the key during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs the key transfer action during the initial installation phase before the peripheral device is fully integrated into the system. By completing the key transfer during setup and then disabling the transfer capability, the system prevents future unauthorized access while maintaining ease of initial configuration.
3Reliability
If external security switch is provided on peripheral device, then the key transfer can be enabled during installation, but if the housing is breached, the switch can be easily flipped to enable fraudulent key transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the simple mechanical security switch with an integrated optical scanning and processing system. The camera-based system provides a more secure and sophisticated mechanism that is difficult to manipulate, eliminating the vulnerability of simple external switches while maintaining the ability to enable key transfer during installation.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the security switch is made inaccessible by locking the security door, then fraudsters cannot access the switch, but the service engineer cannot easily reconfigure the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs all necessary key transfer operations during the initial installation phase before the security door is locked. The service engineer completes the configuration task during setup, and the system automatically secures itself by disabling further key transfers, eliminating the need for future access while maintaining ease of initial configuration.
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 solution provides a secure and efficient method to transfer encryption keys, reducing the risk of fraud by ensuring the key is only accessible during authorized initialization and preventing unauthorized access after the initialization period, thus enhancing the security of data transfer in gaming or vending machines.
Implementation Method 1
The detector may comprise a micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS).
Implementation Method 2
The claimed apparatus may comprise a capacitive reservoir configured to store electrical energy to power the peripheral device.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Secure data transfer apparatus comprising a first device to be mounted in a housing in a predetermined normal configuration for normal operation wherein secure data transfer takes place between the first device and a second device in the housing, the first device including a detector configured to detect when the first device is placed in a predetermined initialization configuration different from the normal configuration and to enable an initialization data transfer between the devices for permitting normal operation to occur thereafter in said normal configuration.