Secure User Interface via Optical Isolators for Cellular Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
In secure spaces where wireless communication devices are prohibited due to security concerns, users face challenges in accessing and utilizing their cellular communication devices for both input and output operations while maintaining security protocols.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a communication interface, first and second communication isolators, and a secure user interface allows users to securely communicate with their cellular communication device located outside the secure area through an optical communication channel, ensuring no wireless signals are emitted within the secure space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cellular communication device is brought into a secure space, then the user can access communication functions, but security is compromised due to potential RF signal emissions and tampering risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the communication functionality into two separate locations: the cellular communication device remains in the unsecure area, while a secure user interface is placed in the secure area. These segments are connected through an optical communication channel that passes through the wall between the areas, allowing users to access communication functions securely without bringing the device into the secure space.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical communication channel serves as an intermediary between the cellular communication device in the unsecure area and the secure user interface in the secure area. This intermediary transfers communication signals optically through the wall, eliminating the need for wireless RF signals within the secure space while maintaining communication functionality.
2Ease of operation
If wireless communication protocols (WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC) are used to connect to the cellular device from within the secure space, then communication functionality is maintained, but RF signal emissions compromise security protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces wireless RF-based communication protocols (WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC) with an optical communication system. Instead of using electromagnetic waves that can penetrate walls and emit RF signals, the invention uses optical signals transmitted through a physical channel (optical cable or fiber) embedded in the wall, thereby eliminating harmful RF emissions while maintaining communication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical communication channel acts as an intermediary that physically separates the wireless communication device from the secure space. The optical cable or fiber embedded in the wall serves as a controlled medium that allows signal transmission without emitting RF waves into the secure environment.
3Reliability
If the cellular device is kept outside the secure area but accessed remotely, then security is maintained, but communication functionality is limited without wireless protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The optical communication channel embedded in the wall serves as an intermediary that extends the functionality of the cellular device into the secure space without physically bringing the device inside. This intermediary allows full communication functionality (calls, texts, data) to be accessed from within the secure area while the device itself remains outside, maintaining both security and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from three-dimensional wireless space (where RF signals propagate freely) to a constrained one-dimensional optical path through the wall. By moving the communication interface to another dimension (through the wall structure), the system maintains communication functionality while eliminating the security risks associated with wireless protocols in the secure space.
4Ease of operation
If wired copper connections are used to connect the cellular device to the secure area, then communication functionality is maintained, but copper cables can act as antennas and compromise security
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces copper cable connections with an optical communication system. Instead of using electrical conductors (copper cables) that can act as antennas and radiate signals, the invention uses optical fibers or optical cables that transmit light signals. This substitution eliminates the antenna effect while maintaining communication functionality, as optical materials do not conduct electrical signals and therefore cannot radiate electromagnetic waves.
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
Enables secure and functional communication within the secure area by isolating wireless signals and preventing potential tampering, while allowing users to access their communication device for essential functions.
Implementation Method 1
a first communication isolator for location in the unsecure area, the first communication isolator comprising at least one first communication port for connection to the at least one second communication port of the communication interface and at least one optical communication port; a second communication isolator for location in a secure area, the second communication isolator comprising at least one optical communication port for connection to the at least one optical communication port of said first communication port to permit communications between said first and second communication isolators via an optical communications channel
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices and systems allow a user to utilize their cellular or WiFi communication device from within a secure area, preferably via a secure user interface that is communicatively coupled to their device which is located outside of the secure area. The system includes a communication interface located outside of the secure area which serves as an interface to the user communication device, and which communicates with a secure user interface within the secure user interface by one or more communication isolators that transmit information between the secure and unsecure areas via optical communication signals. The secure user interface includes a touch screen display, speaker, microphone and keyboard for presenting outputs and receiving inputs in a manner that mimics direct interaction with the user communication device.