NFC Interposed Element Switching Between Transparent and Buffered Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing near field communication systems lack flexibility in implementing multiple applications without relying on a specific secure element, leading to technical and economic obstacles due to lack of a standardized format for secure elements across different market participants.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow near field communication appliances to temporarily switch from transparent to buffered connection mode with multiple secure elements, enabling the forwarding of communications to the appropriate secure element hosting the required application, thereby bypassing the need for access to a particular secure element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a transparent connection mode is used between the interposed element and secure elements, then communication speed is improved and security is enhanced, but the system lacks flexibility in selecting different secure elements for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The interposed element dynamically switches between transparent connection mode and buffered connection mode depending on the operational requirements. In transparent mode, data flows directly for high-speed communications. When secure element selection is needed, the system temporarily transitions to buffered mode, allowing the interposed element to decode data, identify the appropriate secure element, and route communications accordingly, then returns to transparent mode for subsequent high-speed transfers.
Solution Approach 2:
The interposed element acts as an intelligent intermediary between the NFC frontend and multiple secure elements. It maintains transparent connections with all secure elements simultaneously while having the capability to temporarily intercept and buffer communications when selection is required. This intermediary role allows the system to preserve both the speed benefits of transparent mode and the flexibility of selective routing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple secure elements are supported without a standardized format, then adaptability across different market participants is improved, but technical incompatibilities and economic obstacles increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interposed element is designed with universal functionality to support multiple secure elements with different formats and standards. It can decode various secure element types, identify their specific formats, and route communications appropriately. This multi-functional capability allows different market participants to use their preferred secure element implementations without requiring a single standardized format, thereby reducing technical incompatibilities while maintaining broad adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the interposed element buffers data to determine the appropriate secure element, then flexibility in application selection is improved, but communication transparency is temporarily broken
Solution Approach 1:
The buffering operation is performed periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. The interposed element monitors incoming communications and only activates buffering when secure element selection is required. After successfully routing a communication to the appropriate secure element, the system returns to transparent mode. This periodic switching between buffered and transparent modes minimizes the time transparency is broken while maintaining the necessary flexibility for application selection.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling the flow of data in a near field communication appliance having a plurality of secure elements is provided. The method includes receiving a first communication, sent by an external appliance, which is intended for an application located in one of a plurality of secure elements of the near field communication appliance. The method further includes determining which of the secure elements contains the application, and taking measures in order to ensure that a further communication exclusively between the external appliance and the secure element contains the addressed application. In addition, appropriate mobile terminals for NFC communication are disclosed.