IC Chip Function Switching via GPS Position Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing terminals with IC chips face significant modification costs due to their tamper-proof nature, making it difficult to change functions once they are shipped, as modifications require accessing and altering parameters within the IC chip.

Innovation Solution

An information processing terminal equipped with a built-in IC chip that uses GPS signals to determine its position and automatically select functions without altering data within the IC chip, allowing dynamic switching of functions based on location without modifying the IC chip's parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the IC chip is tamper-proofed to ensure security, then security is improved, but the ability to modify functions after shipment deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidfunction modification capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the IC chip into multiple independent data areas, each storing different function parameters. This segmentation allows the system to switch between functions by selecting different data areas without modifying the chip structure or security properties. The function selection is achieved through external control signals that redirect operations to different data areas, resolving the contradiction between security and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic function switching by making the active data area configurable through external control. Instead of fixed function assignment, the system can dynamically redirect operations to different data areas based on external signals. This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows function modification without physical chip modification, maintaining security while enabling adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If parameters are accessed within the IC chip for function modification, then function adaptability is improved, but modification cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction switching capabilityVSAvoidparameter access complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that manages data area selection from outside the IC chip. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of parameter access by providing a simplified interface for function switching. External control signals interact with the intermediary to select appropriate data areas, eliminating the need for direct complex parameter manipulation while maintaining function adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple data areas are created in the IC chip to fulfill multiple functions, then versatility is improved, but the difficulty of accessing and switching between functions increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-function capabilityVSAvoidfunction switching ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal control mechanism that can access and switch between multiple data areas through a single interface. This universal approach allows the same control mechanism to manage all functions regardless of their specific data area locations, simplifying the operation of multi-function switching while maintaining the versatility provided by multiple data areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 cost-effective and convenient switching of functions without altering the IC chip's data, reducing modification costs and enhancing user convenience by dynamically selecting functions based on location using GPS signals.

Implementation Method 1

GPS signals reception unit that receives GPS signals originating from GPS satellites

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadio signal reception: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

engages in wireless data exchange with another device through noncontact communication

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNoncontact wireless communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8779972B2Information processing terminal and computer program
Publication Date: 2014.07.15 FELICA NETWORKS INC
  • US8779972B2 patent drawing
  • US8779972B2 patent drawing
  • US8779972B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing terminal, including a request reception unit that receives a function request. A GPS signals reception unit that receives a GPS signal, and a current position measuring unit that determines the latitude and longitude of the current position of the information processing terminal based upon the GPS signal. A defining information recording unit in which defining information related to the functions that can be engaged at the information processing terminal is recorded. A function decision-making unit that makes a decision as to whether or not a function can be engaged based upon the defining information and the latitude and longitude of the current position having been measured by the current position measuring unit and a data read/write unit that reads/writes data from/into a data area among a plurality of data areas based upon the results of the decision made by the function decision-making unit.