Contactless Card Security Logo via Graphic Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contactless smart cards face security vulnerabilities due to accessible electronic modules, which can be fraudulently replaced or removed, and existing security features are either ineffective or increase manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A contactless smart card design featuring a graphic security element on the electronic module's surface, combined with a transparent protective layer containing a complementary graphic security element, such as a hologram, to create a tamper-proof logo that only appears when both elements are superimposed, enhancing physical security and manufacturing ease.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electronic module is embedded in the card body with accessible contacts, then the card allows easy connection to readers, but the contacts and module remain physically accessible enabling fraud and module replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful accessibility of contacts into a benefit by integrating security graphics directly onto the contact surfaces. The contacts serve dual purposes: electrical connection and security feature display, making the previously vulnerable accessible surface into a security strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electrical contact function with the security graphic function into a single integrated element. The contacts are not separate components but are themselves the security graphics, combining utility and security in one feature.
2Reliability
If security graphics are applied to cover the electronic module surface, then physical access is reduced, but the conductivity of contacts is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different properties to different parts of the contact surface. Specific areas maintain metallic conductivity for electrical connection, while other areas have security graphics applied. This local differentiation allows both functions to coexist without compromising either.
3Reliability
If contactless cards use laminated inserts between protective layers, then direct contact access is prevented, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase while yield decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the security feature from the complex multi-layer laminated structure and integrates it directly onto the electronic module surface. This simplifies the overall structure by eliminating the need for separate security layers while maintaining security functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the insert is placed between outer protective layers, then the card achieves contactless functionality, but the insert can be damaged during lamination reducing manufacturing yield
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies security graphics to the electronic module surface before the lamination process. This preliminary action protects the module surface and graphics during subsequent manufacturing steps, preventing damage and maintaining high manufacturing yield.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a contactless smart card (1) that comprises a card body (7) and an electronic module (3) provided with an electronic chip (9) connected to the terminals of an antenna (11), the electronic module (3) being arranged in a recess (5) formed in the card body, characterised in that the exposed surface (19) of the electronic module (3) comprises at least one graphic security element (21) capable of protecting said electronic module and the contactless card against attempts at fraud.