Cross-Network Device Pairing via SMS Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to efficiently pair multimedia receivers connected to IP networks with mobile devices on different communication networks, such as 3G/4G networks, as device discovery within home networks is not feasible when devices are connected to distinct protocols like DSL and UMTS/LTE.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a unique identifier introduced into an application on the multimedia receiver, which sends a pairing request message to the mobile device, acquiring and verifying a public IP address for secure and authenticated pairing, allowing data exchange between devices even when on different network protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If device discovery protocols specific to home networks are used, then pairing is simple when devices are on the same network, but pairing fails when devices are on different networks (e.g., DSL vs. mobile 3G/4G)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces SMS messaging as an intermediary communication channel between the multimedia receiver and mobile device. The receiver sends a pairing request via SMS to the mobile device, and the mobile device responds with its identifier and public key through SMS. This intermediary mechanism allows pairing across different network protocols (IP-based home networks and mobile networks) without requiring direct network connectivity or protocol compatibility between the devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pairing is performed across different network protocols, then network versatility is improved, but authentication security becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses SMS as a secure intermediary channel that leverages the existing security infrastructure of mobile network operators. The SMS channel provides authenticated delivery to the mobile device, and the mobile device's mobile network identity serves as a trusted authentication mechanism. This approach maintains security without requiring complex custom authentication protocols, as it builds upon the inherent security of the mobile network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs public key cryptography where the mobile device generates a public key that is copied and transmitted to the multimedia receiver through the SMS channel. The receiver stores this public key for encrypted communication. This copying of the public key enables secure authentication and encrypted data exchange without requiring the receiver to have complex verification mechanisms, as the cryptographic system handles the security complexity.
3Speed
If traditional home network device discovery is used, then pairing speed is fast on the same network, but pairing cannot be established on different networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional home network device discovery protocols with SMS-based communication as an intermediary. The multimedia receiver sends an SMS containing a pairing request to the mobile device's phone number. The mobile device receives the SMS, generates a response with its identifier and public key, and sends it back via SMS. This intermediary mechanism enables pairing across different network protocols while maintaining relatively fast pairing speed by leveraging the ubiquity and speed of mobile messaging.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for pairing a multimedia receiver connected to an IP network with at least one mobile equipment connected to a mobile network using a communication protocol different from the IP network. A unique identifier of the mobile equipment is introduced into an application on the multimedia receiver. The latter transmits, to the mobile equipment, a message comprising a pairing request and a command for acquiring a unique public address of the multimedia receiver, said mobile equipment being identified by an address associated to the unique identifier. The mobile equipment receives the message and transmits a response message to the multimedia receiver identified by the unique public address, said response message comprising unique identifier. The multimedia receiver verifies the unique identifier in the response message by comparing it with the unique identifier introduced into the application. If the verification is successful, the mobile equipment pairs with the multimedia receiver.