Code Cover With Remote Keys For Secure Keypad Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic payment terminal code covers either increase terminal size, are fragile, or require unnecessary manipulation to access function keys, leading to inefficiencies and security compliance issues.

Innovation Solution

A code cover with integrated remote keys that allow activation of corresponding keyboard keys without direct access, ensuring ergonomic access and security by using a rod for mechanical transfer and elastic return mechanisms, while maintaining compactness and durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a code cover is provided to hide keyboard keys for security, then security compliance is improved, but accessibility to function keys deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity complianceVSAvoidaccessibility to function keys
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the code cover with integrated remote keys) that mediates between the security requirement to hide keyboard keys and the operational requirement to access function keys. The remote keys on the code cover act as intermediaries that can activate corresponding keys on the keyboard without exposing the keyboard keys themselves, thus maintaining security while enabling functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If remote keys are integrated into the code cover, then accessibility to function keys is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility to function keysVSAvoidcode cover structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the code cover with remote keys into a single integrated component. Instead of adding separate remote key devices, the remote keys are incorporated directly into the code cover structure, combining two functions (security shielding and key activation) into one unified component, thereby reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Volume of moving object

If the code cover is made retractable or removable, then storage space is improved, but reliability and durability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidcode cover durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a pivoting mechanism that allows the code cover to dynamically change its position between a protective position (covering the keyboard for security) and a retracted position (allowing access to the keyboard). This dynamic positioning enables the code cover to maintain its structural integrity and secure attachment to the terminal while still allowing flexibility in usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Facilitates secure and ergonomic access to function keys without reorienting the terminal, reducing the risk of incorrect entries and enhancing usability and security compliance.

Implementation Method 1

a lower face having at least one rod extending towards the keyboard, so that, when the key is pressed offset, the rod comes into contact with the corresponding key on the keyboard

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

The contact between the stem of the remote key and the key of the keyboard acts as a 'conventional' press on this key of the keyboard

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2950284B1Code protector for electronic terminal keypad and corresponding electronic terminal
Publication Date: 2019.05.08 COMPAGNIE INDUSTRIELLE ET FINANCIERE D INGENIERIE INGENICO SA
  • EP2950284B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP2950284B1 patent drawingFigure 1c~2
  • EP2950284B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The invention relates to a code cover (11) for a keyboard (100) of an electronic terminal (10), the code cover (11) comprising at least one key (110), called a remote key, allowing the activation of at least one corresponding key (1001) of the keyboard (100).