QR Code Device Activation With Operator Certificate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling devices like door locks using QR-codes on mobile devices lack adequate safety measures, particularly in remote locations without internet access and require external communication for activation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a device connected to a reader with a processing unit and decoder, where coded instructions are pre-saved in the processing unit, allowing activation via a QR-code with a specific certificate for the operator, ensuring only authorized activation and preventing reuse, with optional duration verification and update functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the device requires communication with an external provider for activation, then the activation process can be centralized and controlled, but the device cannot be activated in remote places without internet access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-loads coded instructions and certificates into the device during manufacturing or before deployment. This preliminary action enables the device to function autonomously in remote locations without requiring real-time communication with external servers for activation, thus resolving the contradiction between remote operability and communication infrastructure requirements
2Reliability
If the device accepts any information-message for activation, then the activation process is simple and fast, but unauthorized activation can occur compromising safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a certificate as an intermediary element that mediates between the information-message and the activation process. The certificate verifies the authenticity and authority of the activation request, ensuring security while maintaining operational simplicity. The reader verifies the certificate automatically, so the user does not perceive the complexity of the security check
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the reader verifies the certificate in the information-message and only activates the device if verification is successful. This feedback loop ensures that unauthorized activation attempts are rejected, maintaining security while keeping the process simple for authorized users
3Reliability
If the information-message can be reused multiple times, then the activation method is convenient and economical, but security is compromised as the message can be exploited repeatedly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a mechanism where the reader memorizes the coded instructions after successful verification and activation. This causes the information-message to become invalid for reuse, as the coded instructions are discarded after single use. This resolves the contradiction by ensuring security through single-use certificates while maintaining convenience through automatic memorization and validation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method to activate a device (1) connected to a reader (3) with a processing unit (5) and a decoder (7), wherein the reader (3) is arranged to read an information-message comprising coded instructions to activate the device (1) and the device (1) is arranged to receive decoded instructions provided by the decoder (7) to activate the device (1), The method comprises: - creating a list of coded instructions to activate the device (1), - saving the list in the processing unit (5) before delivering of the device (1) and the reader (3) to the place of intended operation of the device (1) by an operator and of intended use of the device (1) by a user, - creating an information-message comprising coded instructions to activate the device (1), wherein the information-message is provided with a certificate specific for the operator of the device (1), - providing the information-message to the user, - reading the information-message by the reader (3), - verifying the certificate in the information-message, - decoding the instructions in the information-message if the verification step is positive, - providing decoded instructions to the device (1) and - activating the device (1) based on the provided decoded instructions. The present disclosure relates also to a device and to a system comprising the device.