Nested Memory Card With Near Field Communications Capability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for adding contactless communication capabilities to portable devices are costly, non-universal, and complicated, particularly for devices without built-in NFC hardware, leading to increased device costs and inventory management issues, as well as privacy and competition concerns due to reliance on SIM cards.
Innovation Solution
A mother/daughter card configuration where the daughter card, capable of contactless communication, can be used independently or with a mother card to provide NFC functionality to various devices, including those without built-in NFC hardware, using a small form factor and telescoping antenna for flexibility and cost reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If NFC chip, secure controller, and battery are integrated into a replacement battery cover (smart cover), then contactless communication capability is added to portable devices, but device cost increases significantly and battery waste occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the NFC functionality into separate modular components: an NFC card containing the NFC chip and antenna, and an optional adapter. This segmentation allows users to purchase only the essential NFC card rather than expensive integrated solutions like smart covers that include unnecessary components such as batteries and secure controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the NFC chip and antenna from the host device and places them in a removable card format. This extraction allows the NFC functionality to be added without modifying the host device structure or incurring high integration costs, while also avoiding the waste associated with replacing entire battery covers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If NFC antenna is built into the phone, then contactless communication is enabled, but device cost increases for all consumers including those who don't need NFC functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC card is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of host devices including smartphones, tablets, and computers. The card can be inserted into any device with a standard card slot, providing NFC functionality without requiring device-specific integration or custom antennas for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a low-cost NFC card that can be easily replaced if lost or damaged, compared to expensive built-in NFC antennas integrated into the device. The card format allows for cost-effective manufacturing and distribution, making NFC accessibility affordable for all consumers regardless of device price point.
3Adaptability or versatility
If SIM card is used for secure controller, then NFC functionality is provided, but privacy concerns arise and third-party applications become difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an independent NFC card as an intermediary between the user and the NFC network infrastructure. The card contains its own secure controller and can store multiple applications and data locally, acting as a portable secure element that doesn't require reliance on carrier-controlled SIM cards or cloud-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The NFC card is designed to be self-contained with its own secure controller, memory, and processing capabilities. Users can load their own applications and data onto the card independently, enabling third-party developers to create and distribute NFC applications without requiring carrier approval or integration, thus preserving user privacy and fostering competition.
4Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated NFC antenna is built into the device, then NFC communication is enabled, but inventory management becomes complicated and device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC card uses a standardized form factor and interface that is compatible with multiple device types and manufacturers. This universality simplifies inventory management because the same card can be used across different devices, eliminating the need for device-specific NFC implementations and reducing the complexity of maintaining multiple product variants.
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 seamless addition of contactless communication to a wide range of devices, reducing costs and inventory complexity while maintaining flexibility in electronic commerce and identification applications, allowing users to easily transfer data and accounts between devices.
Implementation Method 1
NFC devices or cards use an embedded microcontroller (including its own microprocessor and several types of memory) and a magnetic loop (inductive) antenna that operates at 13.56 MHz (RFID)
Data Source
AI summary
A mass storage memory card adds functionality to host devices with which it is used. In addition to the ability to store large amounts of user files and protect them from unauthorized duplication, a mass storage device according to the present invention enables near field communications (NFC) with a portable electronic device that otherwise does not have such functionality. In a preferred embodiment the mass storage device has a mother/daughter configuration wherein the daughter card is a fully functioning micro-SD card that can be used independently. The mother card can be accepted in an SD card slot and communicates via the SD protocol and via a wireless radio frequency interface. Whether or not the daughter card is present in the mother card, a host with the mass storage device therein will be capable of near field communications. These communications can be peer to peer or can be used to purchase goods or services as a sort of electronic wallet. A controller of the device is also operable to coordinate, control, and safeguard the financial transactions made when using the device and host as an electronic wallet.