Portable NFC Device with Mechanical Switch for Secure Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing near-field communication devices in portable objects, such as watches and chip cards, are vulnerable to unauthorized access and hacking, as they remain active between activation and communication establishment, lacking practical and effective security measures.
Innovation Solution
A portable object with a near-field communication device featuring a mechanical switch that can be easily activated and deactivated by a control element, such as a bezel or push button, which forms a part of the electrical circuit, providing secure communication by switching between active and passive positions, and optionally using Reed switches and magnetic fields for additional security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic near-field communication devices are used, then communication functionality is improved, but security vulnerability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring the user to manually activate the communication device before use. The control element must be moved to the active position, which closes the mechanical switch and enables the communication circuit only when needed. This preliminary manual activation step ensures the device is secure between communications while maintaining automatic communication functionality when activated.
2Reliability
If security measures are added to protect against unauthorized access, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the security function with the existing control elements of the portable object. The control element (such as a crown on a watch) serves dual purposes: its normal operational function and the security activation function. The mechanical switch is integrated into the existing circuitry, combining the security mechanism with the device's normal structure rather than adding separate complex security systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides self-service security through the user's own manual activation action. The user themselves activates and deactivates the communication function by moving the control element, making the user the security mechanism. This eliminates the need for external security devices or complex electronic security systems while maintaining effective security control.
3Reliability
If manual activation procedures are implemented, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is designed with multi-functionality, serving both the device's normal operational controls and the security activation function. For example, a watch crown that normally adjusts time or date settings is also used to activate the near-field communication function. This universal design allows the same element to perform multiple functions without adding separate controls, maintaining ease of operation while providing security.
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
The solution simplifies security operations, reduces hacking risks, and ensures the device is secure between communication sessions, offering ease of use and enhanced protection against fraudulent access.
Implementation Method 1
the portable object comprises a permanent magnet which is mobile relative to the Reed switch and able to modify the state of the Reed switch in response to a displacement of the control element
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic field of the reader generates an induced current in the antenna which supplies the chip
Data Source
AI summary
A portable object including a near-field communication device. The communication device includes an antenna, the ends of which are configured to be connected electrically to an electronic chip, forming, together with the chip, an electrical circuit. In an original manner, the portable object includes a control element which is able to be displaced between two predefined positions, i.e. an active position wherein the communication device is activated and a passive position wherein the communication device is deactivated. The portable object includes, furthermore, a mechanical switch which is able to switch between an open state and a closed state in response to a displacement of the control element from one to the other of its predefined positions.