NFC Data Routing Processor for RFID Memory Constraints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current NFC systems face limitations in managing application data, particularly due to the low memory capacity of RFID chips and restricted data exchange possibilities between host processors, which restricts the functionality and presentation of data.

Innovation Solution

A method for generating complementary application data in response to data routing or transfer within an NFC system, which is then supplied to host processors to enhance data display and presentation, and includes spy data for transaction monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If data is exchanged between host processors through the contactless interface, then data exchange capability is improved, but the memory capacity limitation of RFID chips restricts the amount of data that can be stored and processed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata exchange capabilityVSAvoidmemory capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from storing all data locally in the RFID chip to a distributed data model where data is stored in multiple dimensions: data in the RFID chip, data in the host processor memory, and data in external databases. This dimensional expansion allows the system to overcome the memory capacity limitation while maintaining versatile data exchange capabilities through the contactless interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a data routing processor as an intermediary between the contactless interface and host processors. This intermediary manages data flow, routes data to appropriate destinations, and coordinates data exchange between multiple host processors, enabling complex data exchange capabilities without requiring the RFID chip itself to store all necessary data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple host processors are integrated into the NFC system, then functionality is improved, but data management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddata management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The data routing processor serves as a central intermediary that manages data flow between multiple host processors. It receives data from the contactless interface, determines the appropriate destination processor based on data type and processing requirements, and routes data accordingly. This intermediary approach enables multiple host processors to work together efficiently without each processor needing direct communication protocols with every other processor, thereby reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The data routing processor is designed as a universal component that handles multiple functions: data reception from the contactless interface, data routing to different host processors, data formatting, and coordination between processors. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while supporting enhanced functionality through multiple host processors.

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

3Ease of manufacture

If RFID chips with limited memory are used, then cost is reduced, but data storage and processing capabilities are restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecostVSAvoiddata storage capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent compensates for the limited memory capacity of low-cost RFID chips by expanding data storage to additional dimensions: utilizing the memory of host processors and external databases. The RFID chip stores only essential identification and basic data, while more extensive data storage and processing are distributed to the host processor system, thereby maintaining cost-effectiveness while overcoming storage limitations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the data storage function from the RFID chip itself and places it in more capable storage systems (host processor memory and external databases). The RFID chip is reduced to its essential function of data transmission and identification, while the extracted storage capability is implemented in systems with sufficient memory resources, thereby overcoming the memory limitation of low-cost chips.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 method enriches the functionality of NFC systems by enabling more complex actions with limited data, improving data display, and allowing secure transaction monitoring, thereby enhancing user experience and data management.

Implementation Method 1

The NFC processor emits a magnetic field, sends data to the RFID chip by modulating the amplitude of the magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field emission: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

receives data by demodulating a magnetic field emitted by the other reader

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field demodulation: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

emits data to this other reader by modulating the impedance of the antenna circuit thereof (charge modulation)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCharge modulation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

sends data to the RFID chip by modulating the amplitude of the magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field amplitude modulation: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 5

receives data from the RFID chip by charge modulation and inductive coupling

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8412099B2Method and device for managing application data in an NFC system in response to contactless data sending or receiving
Publication Date: 2013.04.02 VERIMATRIX INC
  • US8412099B2 patent drawing
  • US8412099B2 patent drawing
  • US8412099B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for managing application data in an NFC system embedded or to be embedded in a portable object including a contactless data sending/receiving interface, one or more host processors and a data routing or transferring processor is described. The method includes generating complementary application data in response to the routing or transferring of external application data, and supplying the complementary application data to a host processor of the NFC system.