Sensor-Based User Authentication via Synchronized Tap Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing authentication methods for computer devices, such as those involving correlated movement, are cumbersome and resource-demanding, requiring users to hold devices while performing specific movements, which can be inconvenient and prone to inadvertent authentication.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for conditionally authenticating users by obtaining sensor data from a mobile device and a user input device, matching the data based on synchronized taps, with the mobile device being authenticated through digital authentication data, and sending a match signal only when the data corresponds within a threshold time difference, enhancing usability and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If username and password authentication is used, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual system of typing usernames and passwords with an automated sensor-based authentication system. The mobile device's accelerometer automatically detects taps on the user input device, eliminating the need for manual password entry while maintaining security through synchronized tap pattern verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication system performs self-service by automatically capturing and analyzing tap patterns through the mobile device's sensors. The system autonomously compares sensor data from the mobile device with sensor data from the user input device, eliminating the need for user intervention in the authentication process while maintaining security requirements.
2Reliability
If correlated movement authentication is used, then security is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal functionality of the mobile device's accelerometer, which serves multiple purposes including the authentication process. The same sensor that detects general device movement and orientation is also used to detect tap patterns for authentication, eliminating the need for dedicated authentication hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the mobile device as an intermediary between the user and the computer device authentication process. The mobile device captures tap patterns through its accelerometer and transmits this data to the access control device, simplifying the authentication architecture by offloading the complex sensor processing from the computer device to the mobile device.
3Reliability
If correlated movement authentication is used, then security is improved, but use of energy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device's accelerometer operates in a low-power mode, utilizing its existing motion sensing capabilities without requiring additional active sensors or continuous high-power processing. The authentication process leverages the device's natural motion detection already performed for other functions, minimizing additional energy consumption while maintaining security.
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
This approach provides a more efficient and secure authentication process by ensuring that only synchronized and intended user movements grant access, reducing the risk of inadvertent authentication and improving control over access control, while maintaining high security standards.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining first sensor data being based on a mobile device sensing a physical movement of a user
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
It is presented a method for conditionally authenticating a user for access to a computer device, the method being performed in an access control device connected to a computer device. The method comprises the steps of: obtaining first sensor data being based on a mobile device sensing a physical movement of a user; obtaining second sensor data being based on a stationary sensor sensing a physical movement of a user; determining whether the first sensor data matches the second sensor data; and sending a match signal to the computer device when the first sensor data matches the second sensor data.