Dual-interface smart card

Abstract

The invention relates to a smart card and / or payment card with dual interfaces. The smart card and / or payment card optionally comprises one or more of a first antenna, a second antenna, a wire loop, various inserts, one or more metal layers, one or more printed PVC layers and one or more contact, non-contact and / or integrated circuit chips. The first antenna and the second antenna are part of an antenna section insert designed to fit closely into the profile of the one or more metal layers.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Nonprovisional Application No. 18 / 583,954, filed February 22, 2024, pursuant to 35 USC 119(e); and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 447,953, filed February 24, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a smart card and / or payment card with dual interfaces, which may optionally include one or more of the following: a first antenna, a second antenna, a wire loop, various inserts, one or more metal layers, one or more printed PVC layers, and one or more contact, contactless, and / or integrated circuit chips. Background Technology

[0004] The most known contactless or hybrid contact / contactless chip cards include a pre-laminated insert comprising a card body made of plastic, an electronic module containing a microchip within a cavity of the insert body, and an antenna placed within the insert body and electrically connected to the output pads of the microchip. Some of these chip cards have an antenna placed within the card body, which is arranged to be inductively coupled to the electronic module, which itself has an antenna.

[0005] Chip cards and their inserts have standardized formats according to ISO 7810, including physical dimensions, resistance to excessive bending and chemicals, temperature and humidity tolerance, and non-toxicity. Therefore, for cost and flexibility reasons, chip cards are typically made of plastic. The card's bending stiffness, non-toxicity, and chemical resistance should provide it with resistance to degradation and durability. Most bank cards are approximately 3.37 inches by 2.125 inches in size, but other ID or smart cards may include other sizes.

[0006] ISO / IEC 7816 is a set of standards that define integrated circuit cards and their interchangeable uses. These cards are identification cards used for the negotiated exchange of information between the external world and the integrated circuits within the card. As a result of this information exchange, the card transmits information (calculation results, stored data) and / or modifies its contents (data storage, event memory). Different parts of ISO / IEC 7816 define the physical characteristics of cards with contacts (ISO / IEC 7816-1), the size and location of the contacts (ISO / IEC 7816-2), the electrical interface and transmission protocol or asynchronous card (ISO / IEC 7816-3), and other defining characteristics of cards with contacts.

[0007] However, the market segment seeing growth is the market segment for contactless chip cards or hybrid contact / contact chip cards, which have physical characteristics that make them feel more unique or high-end because they are heavier, which ensures a more satisfying experience when handling the card.

[0008] A structure comprising two chips with enhanced antennas is known from document FR 2936075 A1, which is incorporated into a chip card to increase the range of chips that can be read. The card body includes an electromagnetic disturbance system made of aluminum, but the aluminum film provides a shielding effect to prevent the amplifier antennas from interconnecting. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention relates to a smart card and / or payment card with dual interfaces, which may optionally include one or more of the following: a first antenna, a second antenna, a wire loop, various inserts, one or more metal layers, one or more printed PVC layers, and one or more contact, contactless, and / or integrated circuit chips.

[0010] In this embodiment, the present invention relates to a process for manufacturing the dual-interface card of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 A perspective view of the corresponding parts of a dual-interface smart card is shown, along with how they are positioned to manufacture the final dual-interface smart card product.

[0012] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the manufacturing process of the dual-interface smart card of the present invention is shown from beginning to end.

[0013] Figure 3 The image shows a top view of a sheet with multiple antennas before it was cut so that each antenna could be inserted into a dual-interface smart card.

[0014] Figure 4 A side view of an antenna section inlay is shown, which includes the PVC portion of a dual-interface smart card and the antenna section.

[0015] Figure 5 A close-up top view of the antenna to be inserted into the dual-interface smart card is shown (and) Figure 3 (Enlarged view of the antenna in the image). Detailed Implementation

[0016] The present invention relates to a smart card and / or payment card with dual interfaces, which may optionally include one or more of the following: a first antenna, a second antenna, a wire loop, various inserts, one or more metal layers, one or more printed PVC layers, and one or more contact, contactless, and / or integrated circuit chips.

[0017] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a process comprising one or more of the following: pre-pressing to form a layout of a smart card, printing the card, pre-die-cutting metal inserts from steel sheets, designing and manufacturing one or more antennas, assembling the card, laminating the card, perforating the card, mechanizing the process, polishing the card, finishing the card, testing the card (e.g., quality control), and packaging the card for shipment.

[0018] In one embodiment, pre-compression involves having the manufacturer inspect the assembly sequence and color test, and if the assembly sequence or color test needs to be modified, the data is returned to the production assistant and / or planning assistant so that the assembly sequence or color test can be modified (and / or verified with a commercial area).

[0019] In the embodiments, the metal includes one or more of the following: brushed stainless steel, brass, silver, copper, titanium, palladium, gold, or mixtures thereof.

[0020] In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a contactless chip card or chip-card insert, wherein the contactless chip card may include a plastic card, which may be provided with a magnetic stripe, and the card body may have a metal layer.

[0021] From an electromagnetic point of view, inserting a metal sheet into such a card can have adverse consequences because the metal sheet forms partial or even substantial shielding, which in some cases blocks electromagnetic waves that would otherwise propagate between the contactless chip card and the chip card reader. Existing contactless cards suffer from reduced or malfunctioning contactless communication performance, or become most asymmetrical when the card is operated in contactless mode; that is, operation in contactless mode is degraded on one side relative to operation on the other.

[0022] In this embodiment, the present invention avoids the problems of the prior art because the card in one embodiment includes metal sheets located on both sides of the card (i.e., a dual-interface smart card). Therefore, the card of the present invention does not have the asymmetry problem of prior art cards.

[0023] In some embodiments, the dual-interface smart card of the present invention may include a metal alloy, which is aluminum or stainless steel or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the dual-interface smart card of the present invention may include titanium, gold, platinum, aluminum, stainless steel or a combination thereof.

[0024] In one embodiment, the card thickness is between approximately 0.6 mm and 1.0 mm. In a variation, the thickness can be between approximately 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm. In another variation, the thickness is approximately 0.8 mm. In one embodiment, the card dimensions are approximately 80 mm to 90 mm in length and approximately 50 mm to 60 mm in width. In another variation, the card dimensions are approximately 85 mm by 54 mm. In one embodiment, the card weight is between approximately 24 g and 35 g, or alternatively between approximately 25 g and 30 g, or alternatively between approximately 25 g and 28 g, or alternatively between approximately 26 g and 27 g.

[0025] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] Figure 1 A perspective view of the various components of the dual-interface smart card 1 is shown, and the relative positions of each component illustrate how they are arranged together. At the center of the dual-interface smart card is a metal sheet 2, which can be cut to allow the antenna segment insert 6 to be inserted. In embodiments, the metal sheet 2 may be stainless steel. Alternatively and / or additionally, it may be made of the metals described herein or combinations thereof. One advantage of the card as shown is that by cutting the metal sheet 2 to allow the insertion of the antenna segment insert 6, it allows the card to be read by a smart reader on either side, because if the metal sheet were between the reader and the antenna, the metal sheet would inhibit the ability to read the smart card on one side of the card.

[0027] On each side of the metal sheet 2 are adhesive layers 5 (5a and 5b) for holding the antenna section insert 6 in place. Adhesive layer 5b may have holes therein designed to accommodate the chip 7. On each side of adhesive layers 5a and 5b are plastic layers 4a and 4b. In an embodiment, plastic layers 4a and 4b are made of polyvinyl chloride acetate. The plastic may contain other additives. Similar to adhesive layer 5b, plastic layer 4b may have holes cut therein to accommodate the chip 7.

[0028] In an embodiment, plastic layers 5a and 5b may be printed thereon to provide a smart card design and / or text.

[0029] The outer surfaces of plastic layers 4a and 4b are transparent plastic overlays 3 (3a and 3b). These plastic overlays 3 can also be printed on, and plastic overlay 3a can include a magnetic stripe 8, a signature line 9, and an optional hologram 10. These layers can also have additional text or designs on them. In embodiments, these plastic overlays can be thin enough to be placed on plastic layers 4a and 4b, which can have embossed text or designs, and when plastic overlays 3a and 3b are placed on plastic layers 4a and 4b, they adhere to the embossed text or designs, keeping the embossed text or designs raised (so that a person can feel the raised text or designs on the smart card). In embodiments, plastic overlays 3a and 3b can be made of polyvinyl chloride acetate. Other possible materials include polycarbonate or polylactic acid and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymers. In embodiments, polylactic acid is the plastic used in these smart cards because it is more biodegradable than polyvinyl acetate and therefore more environmentally friendly.

[0030] In this embodiment, plastic layers 4a and 4b can be replaced with paper. In a variation, the paper can be embossed with text or designs in a manner similar to that of plastic layers 4a and 4b. The paper should be thick enough to have the typical thickness of a smart card, and also stiff enough to have the desired rigidity characteristics of a smart card (e.g., a credit card, gift card, or debit card). In this embodiment, plastic layers 4a and 4b can be transparent. If the plastic overlay layers 3a and 3b are transparent, and the adhesive layers 5a and 5b are transparent, then the metal layer 2 should be visible from either side of the smart card. In this embodiment, the metal layer can accommodate the printing of text or designs that should be visible to the user of the smart card.

[0031] In one embodiment, the plastic layer 4b can be replaced with a metal layer to make the front of the card entirely metal.

[0032] Figure 1 The general illustration shows how the various parts of the smart card of the present invention are constructed, while Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the process of manufacturing the card is shown.

[0033] In one embodiment, the plastic for the smart card can be manufactured by melting and mixing polyvinyl chloride acetate with additives. In a variation, an extrusion molding apparatus can be used to extrude a plastic sheet. In one embodiment, a polyvinyl acetate mixture is added to the extrusion molding apparatus, which causes heated molten plastic to be forced through a die (i.e., a small, flat orifice). After passing through the die, the sheet encounters stacked rollers, allowing the sheet to be pulled through the rollers. The rollers are designed to keep the sheet flat and maintain the appropriate thickness of the card. The sheet is long enough that as the plastic sheet advances, it moves from a hotter area to a cooler area, thereby cooling the plastic sheet. Finally, the cooled sheet is cut to the correct size by hot wire, by sawing, or by shearing. The card can pass through a buffer, which ensures that there are no excess uneven portions on the edges of the card (after being cut).

[0034] Figure 2 This paper describes a process for fabricating dual-interface smart cards when various components are available. In a first step, the card is pre-pressed (i.e., a print layout is created), and optionally, a digital pre-printer electronically receives information and transfers print data to a printing plate, which will ultimately be used to transfer the print data onto a metal card or onto a plastic layer that will eventually become the dual-interface smart card. In embodiments, printing can be performed on a plastic or metal sheet, where the sheet comprises multiple cards that will later be cut. For example, in embodiments, the printing plate can be configured to print the same or nearly identical information onto a PVC sheet, which will eventually be cut into a series of smart cards. The print data may include the card's title, which may contain a logo and possibly the name of the bank (or the entity issuing the card). It may include different colors and / or designs to be printed on the card. Alternatively, the pre-pressing can be designed to print information only on a single card.

[0035] The pre-pressing step also involves a series of checks during the manufacturing process. These include checking the color, contents, and assembly order of color-coded labels. For example, the contents should be checked for spelling, and this process can be performed by humans and / or computers or other equipment capable of checking spelling / grammar, etc. The machine can also appropriately check the color to determine if the correct color has been selected.

[0036] In the second step, printing is performed on the card or on a sheet that will include multiple cards. The printing step may include laser printing. Printing may involve an engraving process, where the card is engraved. The card may be printed on metal or plastic (e.g., PVC) in a manner that allows the user to see the printing on the card. During the manufacturing process, the printing step should also undergo a series of checks, including verifying that the printing is proceeding as planned. The printing plate, ink, and other printed products should all be checked to verify that they are being printed correctly. They should be checked to ensure they are correctly positioned in the printing press to avoid accidents / smudges / other defects. In embodiments, color testing can be performed using a densitometer, spectrophotometer, or with the human eye or another device capable of accurately determining color (and / or comparing tests). In embodiments, a LAB test should be performed. The LAB test tests darkness / lightness, greenness / redness, and blueness / yellowness, and is a test that allows one to determine whether a good match with a known color exists.

[0037] In the third step, pre-die-cutting is performed. The purpose of pre-die-cutting is to assemble the metal card antenna mold and adjust the die-cutting variables according to the needs of the operation. The die-cutting operator receives the metal sheet containing the antenna (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 5 The process involves verifying that the antenna sheet fits properly and preparing the sheet for die-cutting. Because a protective film is placed on the sheet containing multiple antennas, the operator should remove the protective film from the sheet before starting the cutting process. A die-cutting test should be performed to verify that the die is correctly positioned when cutting the sheet. In this embodiment, because the sheet including the antennas has two antennas associated with each smart card (discussed in more detail below), care should be taken not to cut or damage any of the antennas to be inserted into the dual-interface smart card. In this step, the operator should also punch the material by forming one or more holes in the sheet to accommodate the chip to be inserted into the card, as well as the guide, to ensure that the card will be properly aligned. In this embodiment, a production assistant assembles the plastic inserts to be inserted into the metal sheet. The die-cut material is stacked, taking care not to scratch or damage it. The metal sheet, which is used to accommodate the antennas to be inserted into the metal sheet (see...), is also cut in this step. Figure 1 The metal layer 2 (metal sheet) and the antenna section inlay 6 (antenna insert) are in the middle.

[0038] In the fourth step, the dual-interface smart card is assembled. The card assembly is performed by... Figure 1 It is shown that Figure 1This invention illustrates not only the individual components of the card but also their relative positions. In one embodiment, the invention relates to bonding inserts in a metal layer to a plastic layer (which may be printed thereon) using a heat-activated adhesive. A typical adhesive for adhering to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) should be used, and heat activation should be performed at a temperature between approximately 130°C and 150°C. All layers should have a certain thickness to achieve the correct thickness for a dual-interface smart card. For example, the thickness of the plastic overlay can be on the order of approximately 60 micrometers, the plastic layer (with printing) on ​​the order of approximately 100 micrometers, the metal layer on the order of approximately 400 micrometers, the antenna section insert on the order of approximately 400 micrometers, and the adhesive layer on the order of approximately 20-30 micrometers. A typical credit card has a thickness of approximately 0.76 mm to 0.78 mm, therefore the above thickness will give the delivery of a dual-interface smart card of approximately the correct thickness (e.g., 400 + 60 + 60 + 100 + 100 + 20 - 30 + 20 - 30 = 760-780 micrometers). Other dimensions of the dual-interface smart card should meet ISO standards. In this embodiment, the card is 8.56 cm long (i.e., wide) and 5.398 cm high. In this embodiment, a hologram, if present, is added to the card as a security feature. The hologram should reflect light, appear three-dimensional, and the image should appear to move or shift when the card is tilted forward or backward. The hologram is generated by taking a photographic image of the object using a three-dimensional laser, and then the photographic image is printed onto a plastic overlay on the card. The signature line is plastic, on which people can write, and the signature is persistent after signing. The chip is a dual-interface chip with two antennas associated with it.

[0039] In the assembly manufacturing process, checks must be performed to ensure that each card is properly assembled. In an embodiment, the assembly operator receives a production order and should check the color (or verify the results of previously completed tests) and verify the production specifications. The operator should verify that all materials, including the printed plastic layer (e.g., PVC), metal sheet, adhesive layer, and plastic overlay, are correct. The magnetic stripe should be adhered to the card, and during assembly, the operator should ensure that the magnetic stripe has the appropriate information data associated with it. In an embodiment, assembly is automated and can be performed by an assembly machine. The assembly machine can be adjusted to the size of the sheet according to the production order. The temperature and time on the machine should be adjusted to allow the adhesive sheet to adhere. In an embodiment, the assembly register should be adjusted to allow the assembly of the metal sheet, adhesive film, plastic layer (e.g., printed PVC), and optionally the plastic overlay. In an embodiment, one or a small number of sheets should be assembled for testing. If the test shows that the card is properly assembled, then assembly can be built on a larger scale. When assembling dual-interface smart cards, an inspection should be performed approximately every 50 cards to ensure that the cards are properly configured. This check is performed to verify the consistency of sheet pulling.

[0040] In the above process, assembly may not involve adding a transparent plastic overlay, but the step of adding the transparent plastic overlay can be performed after the assembly step. This step is the lamination step, which is step five in the process. In an embodiment, this process involves a machine operator who will verify the specifications of the production order. The machine operator sets and verifies that parameters such as temperature, pressure, and time are set correctly to allow lamination to proceed without adversely affecting the type of printing on the plastic (PVC) layer.

[0041] The operator shall verify the thickness of the material (assembled sheet) to ensure it conforms to the production order and ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and / or CQM (Card Quality Management from Mastercard) requirements, and that the assembled cards meet the necessary standards. The operator shall select the sheet based on the format and material specifications (Matte or glossy) and prepare test sheets. Lamination shall be performed, and the resulting laminated product shall be tested for printing, sealing, thickness, and / or other process variables. Visual inspection shall also be performed. Visual inspection shall look for defects such as printing damage, misregistration, color cast and / or stains, and other defects.

[0042] In the sixth step, perforation (i.e., creating holes in the card) is performed. In this embodiment, the perforation process for dual-interface metal cards should follow the correct steps. In this embodiment, a die-cutting machine is used. The die-cutting machine can be used in conjunction with another tool to “punch” the cut card to separate the cut portion from the rest of the card. The machine should be configured according to the requirements of the production order. The operator should begin the die-cutting process by adjusting the card to the final size of the template for the chip position on the metal card. The chip and card should be placed together with the separator to prevent scratches on the chip. In this embodiment, the process is automated (mechanized). As in other steps of this process, quality control tests should be performed to determine that the card meets the appropriate specifications. Quality control involves determining that the magnetic stripe and chip are in the correct position. The test can be performed by visual inspection, and this inspection should ensure that the card is free of any distortion of the magnetic stripe and chip (and that they will be inserted / added to the correct position on the card).

[0043] In step seven, mechanization is performed. The steps listed above can be performed manually until mechanization. The operator should verify that the chip insertion performed in the previous step was performed correctly. In an embodiment, the operator should inspect the production order and analyze all relevant characteristics, including but not limited to quantity, quality, and card size. Computerized mechanized machines can be used, where the operator selects the appropriate program and ensures that all appropriate tools required for the chip insertion operation are in place before starting the automated process. As the automated process proceeds, the operator should periodically check (e.g., by performing random quality checks) the automated process to ensure that the metal dual-interface cards being produced are compliant. The check should involve removing the final product by partially opening the door of the mechanized machine and gently blowing it with a hose to remove chip residue from the card. The operator should then fully open the door and manually remove the card. In an embodiment, quality control is performed and the operator uses a registration template to check the mechanized card to verify chip placement. The operator should check the card to indicate that all necessary parameters (such as card width and height) are correct. This test can be performed using templates and / or gauges.

[0044] In step eight, the card should be polished. The operator should visually inspect the card to ensure that previous steps have been performed according to specifications. In the polishing step, the card is sanded along its edges to remove any defects, metal fragments, etc. The card is then blew out using a (high-power) blower to remove any remaining chip residue. The card should be cleaned with a solvent such as isopropanol (or alternatively, ethanol, methanol, acetone, or another suitable solvent), which has relatively good volatility so that no residual solvent remains on the card for an extended period. The card should be inspected for any defects, such as ensuring the magnetic stripe is in good condition and that the card is free of oil, burrs, scratches, and / or other particles. If the card meets this quality check, the compliant card is packaged and sent to the next process step.

[0045] In steps nine and ten, the card is finished and packaged. For the finishing process of dual-interface metal cards, one or more of the following steps should be performed.

[0046] In one embodiment, the card finishing process includes personalizing the cards so that they can be sent to users who wish to use the metal dual-interface cards. In this embodiment, a personalized number is assigned to each card and associated with a specific user. Additionally, a hologram may be embedded. The hologram could be a personalized image of the user who will use the card sent to them. Furthermore, at this stage of the process, the chip also has a personal identifier associated with the chip, linking the chip to the user. The finishing process also includes additional quality checks, such as verifying that the chip is implanted in the correct position on the card.

[0047] In one embodiment, the card may be heat-shrink packaged during the packaging step.

[0048] Operators in the finishing process need to perform quality checks to verify that the card meets the necessary specifications. According to the production order requirements, the panel and hologram are integrated onto the metal card, and operators must verify that they meet the specifications for this integration. Quality control involves checking the position of the magnetic stripe and chip using a template. The thickness of the panel and hologram should be tested according to ISO 7810. An adhesion test should be performed according to ISO 2409COM 9.1.36, which ensures that the magnetic stripe adheres fully to the card.

[0049] Other quality control checks should be performed, such as verifying that the encrypted information placed on the card meets the necessary requirements. Not only must it be ensured that the data storage features (hologram, magnetic stripe, and chip) are properly and physically adhered to the card, but thickness and adhesion robustness tests should also be performed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, tests should be conducted to ensure that encryption works and that the correct identification tag is associated with the card to be sent to the user (customer). The tests performed include a position check using template / COM 11.2.3 (testing the position of the contacts), a chip adhesion test / COM 11.2.1 (which tests the adhesion of the ICM to the card), a chip thickness test / COM 11.2.2 (which tests the relative height of the contacts), and a three-round test (COM 11.1.2, which is a robustness round test)).

[0050] Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 Various views of the antenna to be used with the card of the present invention are shown. Figure 3 The results show the manufacture of 24 sets of antennas (each set comprising two antennas), which will be incorporated into the card of the present invention. The 24 sets of antennas 36 exist on a sheet 31, and each set 34 is cut to separate the sets for addition to the card. The card is manufactured such that there is a width distance 33 of approximately 59 micrometers and a length distance 32 of approximately 92.5 micrometers between the centers of each antenna. The individual sets 34 are cut at the dashed lines so that they can be incorporated into a dual-interface smart card. The dimensions of each set 34 are approximately 54 micrometers by approximately 85.6 micrometers. It should be understood that the dimensions of the sets can be modified to some extent, but in one embodiment, their width should be between approximately 50 micrometers and 60 micrometers, and their length should be between approximately 80 micrometers and 90 micrometers.

[0051] Figure 4A side view of an antenna sheet 46, which combines and adjoins a PVC sheet 44b and a transparent bottom cover sheet 43b, is shown. The antenna sheet 46 has a width of approximately 150 micrometers, the adjacent PVC sheet 44b has a width of approximately 220 micrometers, and the transparent bottom cover sheet 43b has a width of approximately 50 micrometers. In this embodiment, this cover sheet is designed to protect the antenna. Therefore, the total width 41 of the antenna segment insert is approximately 400 + / - 30 micrometers. Wires from the first antenna 46a can be seen in the figure. An antenna capacitor 47 is associated with the antenna 46a and is designed to receive and / or transmit signals to / from a dual-interface smart card using inductive connection technology, thereby allowing communication with a card reader.

[0052] Figure 5 A close-up top view of antenna sheet 51, including first antenna 56a and second antenna 56b, is shown. First antenna 56a and second antenna 56b are operatively attached to each other. The total antenna length 53 from the bottom of the second antenna 56b to the top of the first antenna 6a is approximately 47.74 micrometers, and the first antenna length 52 is approximately 15 micrometers. It should be noted that the overall antenna (which includes first antenna 56a and second antenna 56b) is shaped like the letter "d". Therefore, antenna sheet 51 can be cut into the shape of the letter "d" to incorporate a small amount of sheet material around the antenna, making it shaped like the letter "d" (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 1 The antenna segment inlay 6 is cut into the card as described herein. It should be noted that, in the embodiments, the chip 7 is designed to be positioned such that, when manufacturing a dual-interface metal card, the chip 7 is positioned adjacent to the first antenna 56a (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 and Figure 5 However, it should be understood that the design of the main antenna can be different, and the chip can be positioned (as long as it meets ISO standards) so that it is adjacent to the second antenna.

[0053] It should be understood that, in this embodiment, the chip is positioned such that a smart card reader can easily read and obtain the associated personal customer identifier associated with the card when the card is used by a user. As discussed herein, the dual-interface smart card also includes encryption technology associated with the chip, preventing unauthorized card readers from easily obtaining the associated personal customer identifier associated with the card.

[0054] It should be understood that the present invention contemplates and therefore includes multiple chips and magnetic stripes, as well as antennas, having suitable associated electronics, such that they can communicate and / or transmit data as required by the card reader. Furthermore, it should be understood that suitable computer-related components may also be present to perform this function. Finally, in embodiments, the card of the present invention has suitable encryption technology such that only authorized card readers can collect / identify / retain the tokens associated with the card and the card user. In one embodiment, the security features of the card may include a technology where both the magnetic stripe and the computer chip have separate encryption technologies that work in concert, such that the card reader may not be able to collect / identify and / or retain the tokens associated with the card or the card user unless the card reader is able to decrypt the technology present on the magnetic stripe and the technology on the chip. In an alternative embodiment, the encryption technology of the card may involve requiring the user to enter a PIN number when using the card. Only when the PIN number is entered is any data associated with the card or the card user published to the card reader.

[0055] This invention relates to a dual-interface smart card, comprising:

[0056] a) Antenna section inlay component

[0057] b) Metal sheets,

[0058] c) One or more adhesive layers, and

[0059] d) One or more plastic layers,

[0060] The antenna section inlay is cut so that it is designed to be assembled in a metal sheet, which has been cut to accommodate the antenna section inlay.

[0061] In one embodiment, the dual-interface smart card further includes one or more chips, a magnetic stripe, a signature line, or a hologram. In a variant, the dual-interface smart card includes all of the chip, magnetic stripe, signature line, and hologram.

[0062] In one embodiment, the metal sheet is one or more components selected from stainless steel, gold, platinum, copper, aluminum, and mixtures thereof. In a variation, the metal sheet includes stainless steel.

[0063] In one embodiment, one or more plastic layers comprise one or more components selected from polyvinyl chloride acetate, polycarbonate, polylactic acid, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, and mixtures thereof. In a variant, one or more plastic layers comprise polyvinyl chloride acetate.

[0064] In one embodiment, the antenna section inlay includes two antennas. In a variant, the dual-interface card also includes a chip.

[0065] In one embodiment, the antenna section inlay includes a first antenna and a second antenna, the first antenna being positioned adjacent to the chip when the card is assembled.

[0066] In an embodiment, the present invention relates to the aforementioned dual-interface smart card, wherein the dual-interface smart card further includes a chip, a magnetic stripe, a hologram and a signature line, the metal sheet includes stainless steel, one or more plastic layers include polyvinyl chloride acetate, an antenna segment inlay is configured adjacent to the chip, and the magnetic stripe and the chip have encryption technology associated with the magnetic stripe and the chip.

[0067] In one embodiment, the encryption technologies of the magnetic stripe and the chip work together to prevent unauthorized card readers from accessing the tokens associated with the dual-interface smart card. In a variant, the encryption technologies of the magnetic stripe and the chip require that the PIN also be used to access the tokens associated with the dual-interface smart card. In another variant, the encryption technologies also require the user's signature.

[0068] In one embodiment, the dual-interface smart card further includes one or more transparent plastic overlays. In a variant, one or more transparent plastic overlays are present on the exterior of the dual-interface smart card. In another embodiment, the dual-interface smart card includes two adhesive layers, two plastic layers, and two transparent plastic overlays.

[0069] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a dual-interface smart card, the smart card comprising:

[0070] a) Antenna section inlay component

[0071] b) Metal sheets,

[0072] c) One or more adhesive layers, and

[0073] d) One or more plastic layers,

[0074] One or more adhesive layers are used to attach and position the antenna segment insert within a metal sheet to form a metal antenna sheet, and one or more plastic layers are abutted to the metal antenna sheet, wherein both the metal sheet and the antenna segment insert have been cut. In a variation, cuts are made in both the metal sheet and the antenna segment insert such that the antenna segment insert is tightly fitted within the metal sheet. This tight fit means that there is a distance of less than one micrometer between the exterior of the antenna segment insert and the metal sheet. In an embodiment, the antenna segment insert is "d"-shaped.

[0075] In a variation, the method further includes one or more steps of pre-pressing, printing, die-cutting, assembling, laminating, punching, mechanizing, polishing, finishing, and / or packaging the dual-interface smart card. In a variation, the method includes all of the following steps: pre-pressing, printing, die-cutting, assembling, laminating, punching, mechanizing, polishing, finishing, and packaging the dual-interface smart card. In a variation, the method further includes performing quality control testing. In a variation, one or more adhesive layers comprise a heat-activated adhesive. In a variation, adhesion via the heat-activated adhesive occurs at 130°C–150°C.

[0076] In this embodiment, the present invention relates to a dual-interface metal card that behaves similarly to a plastic card but can be read from both sides, while complying with all standardization requirements (e.g., from the government) and other requirements that may be given by the purchaser and / or franchisee.

[0077] The following references are cited in their entirety for all purposes.

[0078] U.S. Patent No. 10,198,686

[0079] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0206047A1

[0080] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0235122A1

[0081] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0180212A1

[0082] World Intellectual Property Organization Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 113765A1

[0083] World Intellectual Property Organization Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 003409A1

[0084] France 2936075A1

[0085] It should be understood and anticipated that, within the scope of this invention, any feature listed above can be combined with any other feature listed above, provided that those features are not incompatible. Whenever a scope is mentioned, any real number within that scope is considered an endpoint of a generated subscope. In all cases, this invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dual-interface smart card, comprising: e) Antenna section inlays f) Metal sheets g) One or more adhesive layers, and h) One or more plastic layers, The antenna segment inlay is cut so that it is designed to be assembled in a metal sheet, which has been cut to accommodate the antenna segment inlay.

2. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 1 further includes one or more of a chip, magnetic stripe, signature line, or hologram.

3. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 2, wherein, The dual-interface card includes the chip, the magnetic stripe, the signature line, and all of the hologram.

4. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 1, wherein, The metal sheet is one or more components selected from stainless steel, gold, platinum, copper, aluminum, and mixtures thereof.

5. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 4, wherein, The metal sheet is stainless steel.

6. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more plastic layers include one or more components selected from polyvinyl chloride acetate, polycarbonate, polylactic acid, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, and mixtures thereof.

7. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna section inlay includes two antennas.

8. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 7, wherein, The dual-interface card also includes a chip.

9. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 8, wherein, The antenna section inlay includes a first antenna and a second antenna, with the first antenna positioned adjacent to the chip.

10. The dual-interface smart card of claim 1, further comprising a chip, a magnetic stripe, a hologram, and a signature line, wherein the metal sheet comprises stainless steel, the one or more plastic layers comprise polyvinyl chloride acetate, the antenna segment inlay is configured adjacent to the chip, and the magnetic stripe and the chip have encryption technology associated with the magnetic stripe and the chip.

11. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 10, wherein, The encryption technology of the magnetic stripe works in conjunction with the encryption technology of the chip to prevent unauthorized card readers from accessing the tags associated with the dual-interface smart card.

12. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 11, wherein, The encryption technology of the magnetic stripe and the encryption technology of the chip require that the PIN also be used to access the tag associated with the dual-interface smart card.

13. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 1 further includes one or more transparent plastic covering layers.

14. The dual-interface smart card according to claim 13, wherein, The dual-interface smart card includes two adhesive layers, two plastic layers, and two transparent plastic covering layers.

15. A method for manufacturing a dual-interface smart card, the smart card comprising: e) Antenna section inlays f) Metal sheets g) One or more adhesive layers, and h) One or more plastic layers, The one or more adhesive layers are used to attach and position the antenna segment insert in the metal sheet to form a metal antenna sheet and to abut the one or more plastic layers to the metal antenna sheet, wherein both the metal sheet and the antenna segment insert have been cut.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The method further includes one or more steps of pre-pressing, printing, die-cutting, assembling, laminating, punching, mechanizing, polishing, finishing and / or packaging the dual-interface smart card.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The method includes all of the following processes for the dual-interface smart card: pre-pressing, printing, die-cutting, assembly, lamination, punching, mechanization, polishing, finishing, and packaging.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, The method also includes performing quality control tests.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The one or more adhesive layers comprise a heat-activated adhesive.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The adhesion of the heat-activated adhesive occurs at 130°C-150°C.

Images