Powered-Down NFC Secure Element Application Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current NFC mobile devices cannot switch or load applications while in a battery-off mode due to limited power from the external RF field, restricting user functionality in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow a powered-down NFC mobile device to select an application by decoding a sequence of key-presses on a secure element, powered by a nearby NFC device's RFID field, enabling the execution of the selected application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power is extracted from RFID field to power NFC SE, then NFC functionality in battery-off mode is enabled, but user interface functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments functionality by separating the NFC secure element operations from the main processor and user interface. The NFC SE can operate independently in battery-off mode for basic NFC transactions, while the main device remains powered off. This segmentation allows NFC functionality to be maintained without requiring full device operation or user interface access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (hardware buttons coupled to the NFC SE) that enables application selection without requiring full user interface functionality. The buttons serve as a minimal interface intermediary that allows users to select applications through hardware input while the device remains in battery-off mode, bridging the gap between limited power availability and user interaction needs.
2Ease of operation
If default application is used in battery-off mode, then device operation is simplified, but application flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple applications in the NFC secure element before battery-off mode is activated. Users can pre-select which applications are available for battery-off operation, and the system prepares the appropriate application context in advance. This allows flexible application selection without requiring complex real-time decision-making or full device operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic application selection capability where the default application can be changed based on user input through hardware buttons. The system dynamically switches between different applications stored in the NFC SE based on button press sequences, allowing the application behavior to adapt to user needs while maintaining simple hardware-based operation. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction between simplicity and flexibility.
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 users to select and execute multiple NFC applications, such as ticketing or payment applications, even when the device is powered off, enhancing functionality in emergency situations.
Implementation Method 1
NFC generally works by magnetic field induction. It operates within the globally unlicensed radio frequency band of 13.56 MHz.
Implementation Method 2
The device includes a frequency rectifier and a clock generating circuitry. This provides power (and clock optionally) for the NFC Secure Element (SE).
Data Source
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AI summary
An embodiment relates generally to a method of selecting applications. The method includes positioning a powered-down mobile device into a close proximity of a near field communication device and selecting an application from a plurality of applications stored on the powered-down mobile device. The method also includes executing the application in the powered-down mobile device to interact with the near field communication device.