PIN Generation via Symmetric Block Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PIN generation methods lack efficiency in preventing duplication and user-selectable PINs, and do not effectively counteract entry spoofing, especially in non-currency based programs and promotional systems.
Innovation Solution
A method using symmetrical secret key blocked encryption to generate PINs with a control parameter for word size, allowing for verification of PIN origin and tracking without databases, utilizing base number encoding and QR codes for secure and efficient PIN management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional PIN generation methods (IBM method, VISA method) are used, then PINs can be generated and validated, but the methods are inefficient in preventing duplication and do not support user-selectable PINs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of PIN generation from deriving PINs from PANs or using complex encryption to using a simple counter-based sequential generation method. This parameter change enables efficient duplication prevention through straightforward sequential numbering while maintaining security through the counter's inherent uniqueness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the PIN generation process into distinct components: a counter for sequential numbering, an encryption layer for security, and a validation mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, improving overall efficiency while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If existing PIN validation methods are used, then PINs can be validated, but there is no effective way to counteract entry spoofing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system tracks which PINs have been entered and provides feedback to prevent spoofing. The validation process includes checking against a record of previously entered PINs, creating a feedback loop that detects and prevents attempted spoofing entries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-generating and storing a list of valid PINs before the validation process. This preliminary preparation allows the system to quickly compare entered PINs against the pre-generated list, making it easier to detect spoofing attempts and maintain validation accuracy.
3Reliability
If databases are used to track PIN usage, then comprehensive tracking is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential tracking function from a complex database system and implements it through a simplified counter-based mechanism. By taking out only the necessary tracking capability and implementing it through sequential counters rather than full databases, the system achieves reliable PIN usage tracking with reduced complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service tracking where the counter automatically increments and records PIN usage without requiring external database queries or complex tracking systems. The counter itself serves the tracking function, eliminating the need for separate database infrastructure and reducing overall system complexity.
4Ease of manufacture
If PINs are generated without control parameters for word size, then generation is simple, but there is no way to verify PIN origin or control the binary word size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the counter mechanism universal by designing it to serve multiple functions: generating PINs, controlling word size, verifying origin, and preventing duplication. This multi-functional counter replaces what would traditionally require separate systems, maintaining generation simplicity while adding verification capabilities through the same unified mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for encoding and decoding sequential index numbers to pseudo-random Personal Identification Codes (PINs) of varying word size in disclosed. The word size is defined by a word size control variable. The encoding and decoding process utilizes a symmetric, secret key, block encryption/decryption method. The index numbers are encrypted and the output result produces the PIN numbers. The encryption process may be reversed to a decryption process using a mode control input. When reversed to decryption, the PIN numbers are translated back into the original index numbers utilizing the same secret key for encryption. The block size of the encryption/decryption method is matched to the word size control variable. The word size defines the maximum number of index number/PIN code pairs. There is a one-to-one correspondence between a single index number and the resulting PIN number, thus forming a unique ordered pair.