Secure Data Storage Access via Enclosure Tap Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage devices require separate applications installed on computing devices for secure access, which limits compatibility with different operating systems and increases complexity and cost, and they often rely on additional hardware for authentication.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device that uses sensors embedded within the device, such as vibration and motion sensors, to detect tap inputs and motions on its enclosure for secure access, eliminating the need for external applications and additional hardware, and allowing access based on valid patterns of taps or motions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate applications are installed on computing devices for secure access, then authentication functionality is provided, but compatibility with different operating systems is limited and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication functionality from external computing devices and relocates it directly into the data storage device itself through embedded sensors. This eliminates the need for separate applications on computing devices, resolving the compatibility issue while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The data storage device performs authentication independently using its own embedded sensors to detect tap inputs and motions. The device serves itself by providing authentication functionality without requiring external computing devices or applications, thereby improving compatibility and reducing complexity.
2Reliability
If additional hardware is used for authentication, then security is enhanced, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing sensors in the data storage device multi-functional by using them for both their original purposes and for authentication. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated authentication hardware while maintaining security, thereby reducing device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The data storage device uses its own existing sensors to perform authentication functions independently. This self-service approach eliminates the need for additional authentication hardware, reducing both cost and complexity while maintaining security through reliable tap input and motion detection.
3Ease of operation
If external applications are required for secure access, then authentication is provided, but the system requires additional software dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts authentication functionality from external software applications and embeds it directly into the data storage device hardware. This eliminates software dependencies on computing devices, making the system easier to operate across different platforms while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the software-based authentication system with a hardware-based sensor system that detects physical tap inputs and motions. This substitution eliminates the need for external applications and software dependencies, simplifying the system while improving ease of operation.
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 access to data storage devices across a variety of computing devices with different operating systems without the need for additional hardware or software applications, enhancing security and compatibility while reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A data storage device may include a sensor device, such as one or more vibration sensors
Implementation Method 2
A data storage device may include a sensor device, such as one or more vibration sensors and/or motion sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for providing secure access to a data storage device. A user may provide tap inputs, such as taps or knocks, on an enclosure of the data storage device. The data storage device may determine whether the tap inputs are valid and may allow access to the data storage device (e.g., to non-volatile memory of the data storage device) when the tap inputs are valid.