Plug-In IMD Controller Accessory for Secure Rapid Mobile Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile devices configured as external controllers for implantable medical devices face issues with quick operation, security, and compatibility with various communication protocols, leading to potential delays and unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in accessory for mobile devices that includes a housing with a connector and circuitry, along with an accessory application, to quickly configure the device for secure communication with implantable medical devices, supporting multiple communication protocols and bypassing device locks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a mobile device is configured as an external controller for an implantable medical device, then wireless communication capability is enabled, but device lock security mechanisms prevent quick access and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory performs preliminary actions by automatically triggering the external controller application and configuring communication settings before the user needs to access the implantable medical device. This pre-configuration bypasses lock screens and setup procedures, enabling immediate operation while maintaining security through the accessory's authorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory acts as an intermediary device that mediates between the user and the mobile device's security mechanisms. It establishes its own communication link with the mobile device and triggers the external controller application, thereby bypassing the need for direct user interaction with locked interfaces while maintaining secure authorized access.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication protocols are supported for compatibility with different implantable medical devices, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory achieves universality by supporting multiple communication protocols (magnetic induction, short-range RF, and wired connections) within a single device. This multi-functionality allows the same accessory to work with various implantable medical devices using different communication standards without requiring separate specialized accessories for each protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory serves as a protocol translation intermediary, converting between different communication protocols. It receives data from the implantable medical device via one protocol (e.g., magnetic induction) and transmits it to the mobile device via another protocol (e.g., Bluetooth or USB), thereby enabling compatibility without requiring the mobile device itself to support multiple specialized protocols.
3Ease of operation
If an accessory application automatically configures the mobile device for external controller operation, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of unauthorized access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory acts as a security intermediary that mediates access to the mobile device. It triggers the external controller application through authorized communication channels and maintains control over the configuration process, thereby enabling automatic setup while preventing unauthorized access through its controlled intermediary role.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory applies preliminary anti-action by establishing secure authorized access before any configuration operations occur. It validates its identity and authorization status before triggering the external controller application, thereby preventing unauthorized devices from automatically configuring the mobile device while still enabling ease of operation for authorized users.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a plug-in accessory for operating a mobile device as an external controller for an Implantable Medical Device (IMD). The accessory includes a connector insertable into a port on the mobile device. Accessory circuitry can be powered by a battery or by the mobile device. An application on the mobile device in conjunction with the accessory configures the mobile phone for immediate use as an IMD external controller. When the accessory is inserted into the port or a switch on the accessory pressed, the application operates to validate the accessory; to unlock the phone; to secure the mobile device; and to render a graphical user interface on the mobile device for communicating with the IMD. The accessory can additionally include telemetry circuitry and an antenna for communicating with the IMD, rather than using short-range communication means provided in the mobile device itself.