Memory Card Reader Body with Integrated Conductive Mesh Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory card readers in terminals face security vulnerabilities due to the memory card slot, which can be accessed externally, leading to potential data interception, and existing security enhancements increase manufacturing complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
A memory card reader architecture is divided into two distinct parts: a top cover with an extensive conductive protection circuit and a lower cover with securing lugs and electrostatic discharge zones, allowing for improved protection without additional external components, using laser etching and LDS techniques to create a trellis-like conductive track for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mesh protection is added to the memory card reader, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protective mesh structure directly with the reader body housing, creating an integrated component rather than a separate additive element. The mesh is formed as part of the housing structure itself, eliminating the need for separate mesh components and reducing manufacturing steps while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The reader body housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, houses internal components, and incorporates the protective mesh function against unauthorized access. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed and simplifies the overall device architecture.
2Reliability
If multiple security modifications are added to protect the memory card connector, then protection against electrostatic discharge and wear is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines electrostatic discharge protection features and wear protection features directly into the reader body housing structure. The housing includes integrated electrostatic discharge paths and mechanical guidance elements that work together with the mesh protection, eliminating the need for separate components for each protection type.
Solution Approach 2:
The reader body housing is designed as a composite structure that incorporates multiple protective functionalities within a single component. The housing material and structure are engineered to provide both electrostatic discharge protection and mechanical wear protection simultaneously, reducing the number of separate components needed.
3Reliability
If conventional security modifications are implemented, then security is improved, but maintenance becomes complex or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the reader body into separable components, including the housing with integrated mesh protection and the connector assembly. This segmentation allows individual components to be replaced or maintained independently, simplifying maintenance while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the protective mesh and security features directly into the replaceable housing component, the patent ensures that security functionality is maintained whenever the housing is in place. The integrated design ensures that security features cannot be easily bypassed or disabled during maintenance operations.
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
This design enhances security by protecting a larger surface area, simplifies assembly, and reduces manufacturing complexity and costs while maintaining robust protection against unauthorized access and electrostatic discharges.
Implementation Method 1
a memory card reader body (20) comprising an upper cover (20A) comprising, on its internal face, at least one protection circuit (23); a lower cover (20B), characterised in that the body of the memory card reader comprises two distinct parts
Implementation Method 2
using laser etching and LDS techniques to create a trellis-like conductive track
Implementation Method 3
a lower cover (20B) with securing lugs and electrostatic discharge zones
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 3b~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a memory card reader body 20 of generally rectangular parallelepiped shape comprising a memory card insertion slot 30, the reader body further comprising a receiving housing 22 for a memory card connector 10, and at least one protection circuit 23. According to the invention, such a body comprises an upper cover 20A and a lower cover 20B, said protection circuit 23 being positioned on the inner face of the upper cover 20A.