Proximity Policy Enforcement via Mediator Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack effective mechanisms to enforce proximity-based policies on computing devices, such as ensuring that certain functionalities are only enabled when a companion device is in close geographic or communication range to an anchor device, which is crucial for parental control or enterprise compliance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where a policy server determines proximity based on geolocation data and localized communication interfaces like Bluetooth or NFC, enabling or disabling device functionalities accordingly, with an agent application managing these policies and communicating with a device management system to enforce specified rules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proximity-based policy enforcement is implemented using existing technologies, then device functionality can be controlled based on location, but there is no effective mechanism to reliably determine and enforce proximity between devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a policy server as an intermediary component that receives location indications from multiple devices, determines proximity relationships, and enforces policies based on those determinations. This mediator approach resolves the technical contradiction by providing reliable proximity-based control without requiring complex peer-to-peer communication protocols between devices, thus achieving dependable policy enforcement while maintaining manageable system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If geolocation data and localized communication interfaces are used to determine proximity, then accurate proximity detection is achieved, but additional system components and communication protocols are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the proximity determination function into distinct components: location indication collection from devices, proximity determination by the policy server, and policy enforcement based on determination results. This segmentation allows accurate proximity detection using standard geolocation and communication interfaces while avoiding the need for complex integrated systems, as each component performs a specific function using well-established technologies.
3Reliability
If proximity policies are enforced to control device functionality, then parental control and enterprise compliance are enhanced, but device functionality may be restricted when not in proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic policy enforcement where device functionality is adjusted based on real-time proximity determinations. When a companion device is in proximity to an anchor device, policies are applied to enable or restrict functionality; when out of proximity, different policies take effect. This dynamic approach enhances parental control and enterprise compliance reliability while maintaining ease of operation during authorized use periods, as the restrictions are temporary and context-dependent rather than permanent.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure are related to enforcing a policy on a computing device, or a companion device, based upon its proximity to another computing device, or an anchor device. In one example, the anchor device and companion device can report their location with respect to one another to a policy server. The policy server can determine whether the anchor device and proximity device are in proximity to one another as well as determine whether a policy should be applied to the companion device based upon whether it is in proximity to the anchor device.