Voice-Controlled Headset Security via Character Substitution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable voice-controlled computer systems, such as Google Glass, face security issues due to the risk of alphanumeric security codes being overheard when entered verbally.
Innovation Solution
The system displays pairs of alphanumeric characters on a heads-up display, where the user enters the second character verbally to represent the first character, which is then deciphered by the system for security code entry, enhancing security by avoiding direct vocalization of sensitive information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If alphanumeric security codes are entered verbally in voice-controlled systems, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened due to eavesdropping risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary character mapping system where the user verbally enters a first character that corresponds to a second character displayed on the HUD. This intermediary mapping layer prevents direct exposure of the actual security code characters, as eavesdroppers would only capture the intermediate first characters rather than the actual security code characters. The system maintains ease of voice-based operation while securing the actual code through this intermediary character substitution mechanism.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If pseudo-random character pairs are displayed on HUD, then security is improved by preventing eavesdropping, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing multi-functional capabilities of the wearable device's display and voice recognition systems. The HUD, already used for displaying information, is utilized for displaying character pairs. The voice recognition system, already in place for controlling the device, is used for entering security codes through the intermediary character method. This approach achieves enhanced security without requiring additional specialized hardware, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If character pairs are displayed instead of direct code entry, then security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened due to additional steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent displays multiple character pairs beyond what would be minimally necessary, showing several possible first characters that could map to the required second character. This partial approach allows the user to select from multiple options while maintaining the security benefit of character substitution. The excessive display of character pairs provides flexibility and maintains ease of operation by allowing intuitive selection, while still achieving the security goal of preventing direct code exposure.
Data Source
AI summary
A voice-controlled computer system comprising a headset with a heads up display (HUD). When the system requires a user to verbally enter a character of an alphanumeric security code the system presents to the user on the HUD a plurality of different pairs of alphanumeric characters each containing a first character and an associated (pseudo) randomly generated second character. The first character of one pair is the code character to be entered, but for security reasons the user is required to verbally enter the second character associated with the code character, not the code character itself. The system deciphers verbal entry of the associated second character as equivalent to entry of the first character.