Dynamic Magnetic Stripe Emulator for Multi-Account Payment Cards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional magnetic card readers are limited to processing static magnetic stripes, requiring multiple cards for different financial accounts, as they cannot communicate using alternative data transmission methods.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic magnetic stripe communications device with a coil encompassing magnetic material, which controls reluctance to transmit programmable data patterns, allowing communication with existing card readers by aligning anisotropy, adjusting material width and thickness, or applying a bias magnetic field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional magnetic cards with fixed magnetic stripes are used, then card readers can accurately read the data, but multiple cards are required for different financial accounts and the data cannot be dynamically changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the static magnetic stripe with a dynamic electromagnetic communication device that can actively generate and modulate magnetic signals. The card now contains an electromagnetic transmitter that can dynamically change data patterns and transmission methods, allowing a single card to serve multiple functions and accounts while maintaining compatibility with fixed card readers through standardized signal protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying electromagnetic field characteristics (frequency, amplitude, modulation patterns) to encode different data information. The electromagnetic communication device can dynamically adjust transmission parameters to convey different financial account data, enabling one card to replace multiple cards with different fixed magnetic stripe patterns
2Quantity of substance
If a single card is used to store multiple financial accounts, then the quantity of cards is reduced, but the device complexity increases to enable dynamic magnetic stripe communication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional card that combines a magnetic stripe (for backward compatibility) with an electromagnetic communication device (for enhanced functionality). This universal card can operate in both traditional magnetic reading mode and new electromagnetic communication mode, allowing it to serve multiple financial accounts and communication protocols within a single device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary electromagnetic field as the medium between the card's internal data storage and the external card reader. The electromagnetic communication device modulates this field to transmit data, acting as an intermediary that bridges the gap between static card storage and dynamic data transmission requirements, thereby reducing the need for multiple cards
3Measurement precision
If magnetic material dimensions are adjusted to control reluctance, then accurate data transmission is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using controllable electromagnetic fields to dynamically adjust magnetic circuit characteristics rather than relying solely on fixed physical dimensions. The system can vary field strength, frequency, and timing parameters to achieve accurate data transmission while accommodating normal manufacturing tolerances in magnetic material dimensions
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 accurate data processing by card readers using dynamic magnetic stripe communication, allowing a single card to emulate multiple tracks and transmit data efficiently, reducing the need for multiple cards.
Implementation Method 1
A dynamic magnetic stripe communications device is provided. In some embodiments, the dynamic magnetic stripe communications device can include a coil that encompasses a magnetic material
Implementation Method 2
The read-heads detect a data pulse due to the time rate of change of the magnetic flux coupled into the read-head from the magnetic stripe
Implementation Method 3
In one embodiment, the anisotropy of the magnetic material encompassed by the coil may be aligned in a direction to produce a desired reluctance in a magnetic circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A card (e.g., a payment card) or device (e.g., a token or phone) is provided with a magnetic emulator having a soft magnetic material whose reluctance is controlled.