Wired Host-Slave Link for Secure Fingerprint Enrollment Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with embedded fingerprint sensors but lacking a suitable user interface pose challenges in usability and security during the enrollment process, as users may not receive adequate guidance, and there is a risk of unauthorized data replacement.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus with a flexible printed circuit and integrated control unit allows for a wired connection between an electronic host device and an electronic slave device, using a USB connector or similar, which includes an adhesive connector to securely attach to the slave device's contact pads, enabling enrollment instructions to be provided by the host device, and includes features for secure authentication and locking after enrollment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an electronic device with an embedded fingerprint sensor lacks a built-in user interface, then the device structure is simplified and cost is reduced, but the enrollment process becomes difficult to guide and user interaction becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an external electronic device (such as a smartphone or computer) as an intermediary that provides the user interface for guiding the enrollment process. The fingerprint sensor device communicates with this external device through a wired connection (USB, Bluetooth, or other interfaces), allowing the external device's display and interface to serve as the guide for users while the fingerprint sensor device maintains its simple structure without built-in display or interface components.
2Ease of operation
If an external device is used to provide enrollment guidance, then user guidance is improved, but security risks increase due to potential unauthorized access and biometric data replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication actions before allowing enrollment operations. The system requires verification of the user's identity and authorization status before permitting any biometric data capture or enrollment. This preliminary security check ensures that only authorized users can perform enrollment, preventing unauthorized access and biometric data replacement while still allowing proper users to receive guidance through the external device interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the external device receives status information from the fingerprint sensor device and provides appropriate responses. The external device displays guidance instructions based on the current enrollment state and receives authentication feedback from the sensor device. This bidirectional communication ensures that security protocols are followed while providing real-time user guidance through the external interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wired connection interface is added to enable communication between devices, then enrollment guidance capability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal communication interfaces (such as USB Type-C, Bluetooth, or other standard wired/wireless interfaces) that can serve multiple functions: data transmission for enrollment guidance, power supply to the fingerprint sensor device, and device identification. By using a single multi-functional interface rather than separate dedicated connections for each function, the patent reduces the number of components needed, simplifies the manufacturing process, and lowers costs while maintaining full communication capability for enrollment guidance.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a communication arrangement configured to allow wired communication between an electronic host device and an electrical slave device, such as between a smart phone and a smart card during an enrollment process. The invention also relates to a method for providing instructions to a user of a smart card during an enrollment process.