Segmented LED Authentication Pattern for Device Pairing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices without conventional user interfaces face security vulnerabilities due to simple fixed authentication codes, making them susceptible to misuse and exploitation during pairing and authentication processes.
Innovation Solution
A device with an arrangement of separately illuminated segments that can change color, allowing users to set a color pattern for authentication or pairing, which matches a predefined pattern to establish a trusted communication channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed authentication code is used for device pairing, then the authentication process is simple and easy to implement, but the security is weak and susceptible to misuse or exploitation
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication code is segmented into multiple individual segments (e.g., 6 segments) that can be independently illuminated in different colors. Instead of using a single fixed code, the system divides the authentication mechanism into discrete visual elements that can be dynamically configured, making it more secure while maintaining simplicity in the pairing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color changes in illuminated segments to encode authentication information. Different color patterns represent different authentication states or codes, allowing the system to convey complex authentication data through simple visual color changes that are easy to observe but difficult to exploit.
2Reliability
If conventional user interface components are used for authentication, then the authentication method is secure and reliable, but the device complexity increases and is not suitable for devices without conventional interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The illuminated segments serve multiple functions: they display device status, provide visual feedback, and enable authentication. By making these segments multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate conventional user interface components for authentication, maintaining security while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical or conventional user interface components (keyboards, buttons, displays) with an optical system using illuminated segments. This substitution allows authentication to be performed through visual color patterns rather than physical interaction with complex interfaces, suitable for devices without conventional user interfaces.
3Shape
If the device surface is used for aesthetic purposes only, then the device appearance is maintained, but the authentication functionality is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aesthetic logo/display surface with the authentication functionality by using the same illuminated segments for both purposes. The segments that form the device's visual identity or logo are the same segments used to display authentication color patterns, combining aesthetic and functional roles into a single integrated system.
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
Enhances security and usability by providing a robust authentication method that is resistant to exploitation, while reusing the device's surface space for both aesthetic and functional purposes, such as displaying a logo.
Implementation Method 1
Each segment element has a respective light emitter, such as a light emitting diode, configured to emit light in a determined color
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method to support authentication or device pairing. A respective indication is received from a respective output of each respective contact element within a plurality of contact elements. The respective output indicates a touching of the respective contact element. Based on receiving the respective indication, a respective state associated with the respective contact element is changed. The respective contact element is controlled to change its respective visual state to correspond to its respective state. Based on receipt of the respective indication, it is determined whether the respective states of the plurality of contact elements match a determined pattern. Based on a determination that the respective states of the plurality of contact elements match the determined pattern, access to an operation is authorized.