Security Token Access Device Multi-Device Connection Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Security token access devices are typically dedicated to a single user device, making them inconvenient for users who need to access multiple devices securely, such as personal computers and mobile communication devices, as they require severing connections between devices to establish secure pairings.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables a security token access device to be used with multiple user devices over a wireless connection, managing connections and identifying and removing unauthorized devices by employing pairing mechanisms, secure pairing values, and connection keys to ensure secure communication and access control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a security token access device uses a dedicated connection with a single user device, then security is maintained through secure pairing, but the device cannot be used with multiple user devices simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection management by introducing a prioritization mechanism that divides connections into different priority levels. The access device maintains multiple connections simultaneously by assigning priorities to each connection, allowing high-priority connections to be maintained while lower-priority connections can be severed when conflicts arise. This resolves the contradiction by enabling multi-device access without requiring complete reconnection management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic connection management where the access device can adaptively adjust which connections to maintain based on priority levels and current usage patterns. The system dynamically determines whether to sever lower-priority connections when high-priority connections are needed, rather than using static single-connection or multi-connection modes. This dynamic approach enables versatile multi-device access while managing complexity through automated priority-based decisions.
2Ease of operation
If a security token access device establishes secure pairings with multiple user devices, then user convenience is improved, but security risks increase from potential unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring secure pairing establishment before actual use. User devices must undergo a secure pairing process with the access device before they can be used, and this pairing information is stored in advance. The system also preemptively severs connections from devices that have not been used for extended periods or that are identified as unauthorized, preventing potential security risks before they can manifest.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the access device monitors connection status, usage patterns, and authentication states of all paired devices. The system provides feedback by notifying users of connection status and automatically adjusting connections based on security policies. This continuous monitoring and feedback loop maintains security assurance while allowing multiple convenient connections by detecting and responding to unauthorized access attempts.
3Productivity
If the access device maintains connections with multiple user devices, then productivity is improved by eliminating reconnection requirements, but the device cannot automatically identify and remove unauthorized connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing secure pairing information in advance during an initial pairing process. This pre-established pairing information includes authentication credentials that allow the access device to automatically verify the legitimacy of connection requests. By having this verification mechanism prepared beforehand, the system can efficiently manage multiple connections while automatically detecting unauthorized devices that cannot provide valid pairing information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automated connection management where the access device independently monitors and manages its own connections. The device automatically identifies unauthorized connections by verifying pairing information and autonomously severs connections from devices that fail authentication or remain inactive for extended periods. This self-service capability enables high productivity through eliminated reconnection requirements while simultaneously detecting and removing unauthorized devices without user intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device, system and method for automatically managing wireless connections with a plurality of other devices are provided. The electronic device may be a security token access device and may be adapted to wirelessly pair and optionally securely pair with other devices. Connection information, which may comprise security information, is maintained at the electronic device for each connected device. When a connected device becomes stale, the electronic device implements one or more steps to manage the stale device's connection.