Dynamic NFC Routing Across Multiple Secure Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with multiple secure elements (SEs) face challenges in routing NFC transactions to the correct SE when multiple NFC applications are present, as the NFC controller's route typically points to only one SE, preventing access to other SEs with relevant applications.
Innovation Solution
The NFC controller stores identifiers and location information of NFC applications, allowing it to automatically route transaction instructions to the correct SE, even if the controller's initial route does not point to it, by modifying the route if necessary, and supporting non-standard applications through scenario-based identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the NFC controller uses a fixed routing method pointing to one SE, then the routing structure is simple, but the device cannot access NFC applications in other SEs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing by allowing the NFC controller to modify its routing configuration based on transaction requirements. The controller can switch between different SEs by updating routing tables or configuration data, transforming a static routing structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different NFC application scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary routing configuration by pre-storing routing information and SE identification data in the NFC controller. Before actual NFC transactions occur, the controller is prepared with multiple routing paths and can quickly switch between them based on the transaction type, avoiding complex real-time decision-making during transactions.
2Reliability
If the NFC controller routes to a specific SE, then the routing is straightforward, but it cannot process transactions requiring applications in other SEs
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC controller acts as an intermediary between the card reader and multiple SEs. It receives transaction instructions from the card reader, determines the appropriate SE based on application identification, and routes the transaction to the correct SE. This intermediary role enables reliable multi-SE access while maintaining simple operation at the user level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the NFC controller receives transaction instructions, identifies the required SE based on application data, and adjusts routing accordingly. The controller can query SE availability and transaction requirements, then feedback to select the appropriate routing path, ensuring reliable transaction processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SEs are supported with dynamic routing, then application accessibility improves, but the routing control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the routing control function into distinct modules: SE identification module, routing determination module, and routing execution module. Each module handles a specific aspect of the routing process, reducing overall control complexity while enabling multi-SE access. The segmentation allows independent optimization of each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The NFC controller is designed with universal routing capabilities that can handle multiple SEs through a unified interface and control mechanism. Rather than implementing separate control paths for each SE, the controller uses a universal routing framework that adapts to different SEs based on configuration data, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of this application provide an automatic routing method for an SE and an electronic device, and relate to the field of NFC technologies. When the electronic device includes a plurality of SEs, an NFC application to be accessed by a transaction instruction can be automatically activated. Each of the plurality of SEs of the electronic device carries at least one NFC application; and the electronic device stores first identifiers and SE location information (used to indicate an SE that carries a corresponding NFC application) of a plurality of NFC applications. The electronic device receives a transaction instruction; searches, in response to a fact that the transaction instruction carries a first identifier, the stored SE location information for SE location information corresponding to the first identifier carried in the transaction instruction; and determines a first target SE from at least two SEs based on the found SE location information, and sends the transaction instruction to the first target SE.