Communications: electrical – Condition responsive indicating system – Specific condition
Reexamination Certificate
2000-11-17
2001-10-23
Trieu, Van T. (Department: 2632)
Communications: electrical
Condition responsive indicating system
Specific condition
C340S539230, C340S571000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06307471
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
A method of detecting a signal transmitted between a token and an electronic device for authorizing a user to access the electronic device
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
One method for providing security for accessing an electronic device includes detecting a signal between a token and an electronic device for authorizing a user to access the electronic device. The method comprises the steps of emitting a signal, detecting the signal with an antenna, and measuring the strength of the signal detected at the antenna. The signal is then compared to a predetermined threshold to determine if the user is within a predetermined range. If the user is determined to be within the predetermined range, the user is authorized to access the electronic device. If the strength of the signal is below the predetermined threshold, the user is not allowed to access the electronic device.
One such method is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,821,854 for providing security to a personal computer. However, the software used for this method frequently locks the computer in response to signal strength dropping below the predetermined threshold due to the user moving and working near the computer. If the predetermined threshold is lowered to allow the user more mobility, the computer is less secure because the signal strength may still be above the predetermined threshold to allow an unauthorized user to access the computer when the user is not in proximity to the computer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES
The subject invention provides a method of detecting a signal between a token, i.e. a badge, and an electronic device for authorizing a user to access the electronic device. The method comprises the steps of emitting a signal containing data, detecting the signal with a plurality of antennas, and measuring the strength of the signal detected at each of the plurality of antennas. The method is characterized by sensing the maximum signal strength detected at any of the plurality of antennas and enabling the electronic device in response to the maximum signal strength being above an operational threshold.
Accordingly, the subject invention provides additional security when detecting a signal between a token and an electronic device for providing access to a user. The plurality of antennas allows for detection of the maximum signal strength to overcome any variance that may be detected by the user moving or working near the electronic device. Additionally, the detection of the multiple signals allows the electronic device to log all detected signals and to determine the location of the user relative to the electronic device. The method further provides additional security to prevent the electronic device from being accessed by an unauthorized user when the user is not in proximity to the electronic device.
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Ensure Technologies, Inc.
Howard & Howard
Trieu Van T.
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