Self-Powered Biometric Storage Device Write Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices with biologic identification techniques require connection to a computer for decryption, making data access inconvenient and vulnerable to data leakage due to the need for external power and software assistance.
Innovation Solution
A storage device with a user identification module that converts natural energy into power, allowing for independent operation and decryption without external power or software, using a power supply module, user identification module, control unit, and interface to authenticate users and manage data access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If biologic identification technique is applied for data protection, then data security is improved, but the device requires external power supply and computer connection for decryption which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device performs self-powering through energy harvesting from the identification process itself. The biometric sensor and processing circuitry are integrated into the storage device, allowing it to authenticate users and decrypt data independently without external power or computer assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: biometric identification, power generation, data decryption, and storage access control are merged into one unified device that operates autonomously.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional cryptograph method is used for data protection, then implementation simplicity is improved, but security against cracking techniques deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional software-based cryptographic systems with a hardware-integrated biometric authentication system. The biometric features (fingerprint, iris, voice, or face) serve as the authentication mechanism, substituting conventional password or key-based cryptograph methods.
3Reliability
If storage device requires external power supply for operation, then operational reliability is improved, but device portability and independence deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device generates its own power through energy harvesting mechanisms integrated into the device. The power generation circuit converts environmental energy or identification input energy into electrical power, eliminating the need for external power supplies and enabling standalone operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure, independent data access and encryption on storage devices, eliminating the need for external power and software, enhancing convenience and security by allowing direct decryption and data management on the device.
Implementation Method 1
the power supply module may automatically convert a natural energy into a working power for its operation without aiding of external power supply
Data Source
AI summary
A write-protection module for a storage device and the method thereof are disclosed. The write-protection module includes a power supply circuit, a fingerprint sensor, a database, and a microprocessor. The microprocessor for receiving the working power produced by the power supply circuit to maintain operation is respectively coupled to the power supply circuit, the fingerprint sensor, and the database. The fingerprint sensor receives the fingerprint input of a user, and the microprocessor receives the output signal of the fingerprint sensor and converts the output signal into an input cryptograph. Finally, the microprocessor compares the input cryptograph with a predetermined cryptograph stored in the database to produce a comparison information, and determines whether or not the user may access data.