Wireless Keyboard Module Automatic Pairing via Wired Connector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless keyboards for portable electronic devices, such as tablets, require separate carrying and stands for efficient data input, and existing RF communication protocols lack a simple and secure pairing method, making them prone to security breaches and user interaction challenges.

Innovation Solution

A wireless keyboard module that automatically pairs and charges with a portable electronic device upon physical contact, using a wired connector to pass a charging signal and pairing code, and includes a microcontroller to initiate pairing and RF communication, eliminating the need for manual key exchange and enhancing security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a peripheral keyboard is used with the tablet, then data input efficiency is improved, but the user needs to carry both a keyboard and a stand, increasing device complexity and portability burden

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata input efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of accessories to carry

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the keyboard and stand functions into a single integrated peripheral device that can be connected to the tablet. The keyboard unit includes both keyboard keys and an integrated stand mechanism, allowing the user to carry one device instead of separate keyboard and stand accessories.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated peripheral device serves multiple functions: it provides keyboard input capabilities and simultaneously acts as a stand to support the tablet at various viewing angles. The device can be configured to provide both typing surface and display support, reducing the need for multiple separate accessories.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a wireless keyboard is used to improve freedom of movement, then ease of operation is improved, but pairing security is worsened due to vulnerabilities in RF communication protocols

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefreedom of movementVSAvoidpairing security

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a physical connection intermediary (wired connector) that mediates the pairing process between the keyboard and tablet. During initial pairing, the devices must be physically connected through a wired interface, which provides a secure channel for key exchange that is resistant to eavesdropping and replay attacks, thereby enhancing pairing security while maintaining wireless operation during normal use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs secure pairing actions in advance through a physical connection before wireless communication begins. The secure key exchange and pairing authentication are completed during the physical connection phase, establishing a secure foundation for subsequent wireless communication and preventing security breaches during normal wireless operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If manual pairing protocols are used to establish secure communication, then security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened due to complex user interaction requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication securityVSAvoidpairing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service pairing where the keyboard and tablet automatically perform the pairing process without requiring manual user input. When the devices are physically connected, they automatically exchange security credentials and establish encrypted communication channels, eliminating the need for users to manually enter PINs or configure security settings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical pairing operations (such as typing PINs or pressing buttons) with automated electronic pairing protocols. The physical connection automatically triggers the pairing sequence, and the devices use automated key exchange mechanisms to establish secure communication without requiring user intervention, thereby maintaining security while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10400940B2Wireless keyboard module, portable electronic device and methods for charging and pairing a wireless keyboard module to a portable electronic device

Publication Date: 2019.09.03 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES CORP

AI summary

A wireless keyboard module, portable electronic device and methods for charging and pairing a wireless keyboard module to a portable electronic device are provided herein. According to one embodiment, the wireless keyboard module includes a wired connector configured to electrically connect to a wired connector on a back surface of the portable electronic device when the wireless keyboard module is mounted onto the back surface of the portable electronic device. Upon connecting the wired connectors of the wireless keyboard module and the portable electronic device, the wireless keyboard module is configured to receive a charging signal from the portable electronic device and configured to transmit a pairing code to the portable electronic device across the wired connectors.