Physical Token Secured Charge Management for User Equipment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing portability of electronic devices has led to a higher risk of them being lost, stolen, or misplaced, and existing methods to prevent data theft and unauthorized use, such as device encryption and network blocking, are insufficient as stolen devices can still be used in Wi-Fi mode, especially in developing countries.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a physical token-based secured charge management system where a user equipment (UE) can only be charged to a specific threshold on authorized chargers, using near field communication (NFC) or QR codes, and geolocation-based authorization to restrict charging to approved locations, with periodic re-authentication requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If device encryption and network blocking are used to prevent unauthorized use, then data security is improved, but stolen devices can still be used in Wi-Fi mode

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata securityVSAvoidunauthorized device usage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the charging authorization process into multiple independent verification layers: physical token detection (NFC/QR), geolocation validation, and periodic re-authentication. Each layer operates independently to provide comprehensive security, preventing unauthorized charging even if one layer is bypassed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces physical authentication tokens (NFC tags, QR codes) as intermediaries between the user and the charging source. These tokens act as mediators that must be present and validated before charging can occur, adding a physical layer of authentication that cannot be replicated through software alone.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If physical token-based authorization is implemented, then charging security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharging securityVSAvoidauthorization system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal authorization system that works across multiple charging sources and locations using the same physical tokens and verification protocol. The firmware module handles diverse authentication methods (NFC, QR codes, geolocation) through a unified interface, reducing the need for device-specific implementations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs automatic verification of physical tokens and geolocation data without requiring user intervention. The firmware module autonomously validates authentication credentials and manages charging authorization, reducing the operational complexity for end users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If charging is restricted to authorized locations and tokens, then unauthorized charging is prevented, but charging convenience is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthorization controlVSAvoidcharging convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary validation of physical tokens and geolocation data before initiating the charging process. By pre-verifying authentication credentials and location accuracy, the system ensures secure charging without requiring complex real-time decisions during the charging act itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic re-authentication during the charging process, requiring validation at predetermined intervals rather than continuous verification. This approach maintains security while reducing the frequency of user interactions and system overhead.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution effectively reduces the value and usability of stolen devices by limiting charging to emergency levels on unauthorized chargers and locations, enhancing security by requiring multi-factor authentication and periodic re-authorization.

Implementation Method 1

using near field communication (NFC) or QR codes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectNear Field Communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10169619B2Physical token based secured charge management of a user equipment

Publication Date: 2019.01.01 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION

AI summary

Embodiments for physical token based secured charge management of a user equipment (UE) by a processor. A power charging session is authorized by firmware of the UE for charging the UE upon detecting one or more physical authentication tokens within a selected area of a power charging source or on the power charging source itself, or combination thereof.