NFC Tag with On-Chip Command Interpreter for Secure Firmware Updates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IoT systems face challenges in flexibility and security due to the need for external micro-controller units and lack of firmware update capabilities, leading to complexity and vulnerability to hacking.
Innovation Solution
A tag with a split non-volatile memory architecture, featuring a first area for updateable application code and a second area for pre-compiled commands, allowing secure and flexible implementation of IoT applications without requiring a real compiler, while protecting sensitive data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If application code is stored in non-volatile memory during production, then security against hacking is improved, but flexibility to update firmware is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the non-volatile memory into two distinct areas: a first area for storing updateable application code and a second area for storing pre-compiled library commands. This segmentation allows the application code to be updated via firmware updates while the library commands remain protected and immutable, thus resolving the contradiction between security and flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external micro-controller unit is used, then functionality is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the micro-controller unit with the NFC tag into a single integrated circuit. The micro-controller unit, non-volatile memory with split architecture, and NFC interface are combined in one chip, eliminating the need for external micro-controllers and reducing system complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tag performs multiple functions: it acts as an NFC interface for wireless communication, contains a micro-controller unit for processing, stores updateable application code, and provides a library of pre-compiled commands. This multi-functionality in a single device replaces what previously required multiple separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If full compiler is used for programming, then programming flexibility is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides a library of pre-compiled commands that handle complex low-level operations. Application developers only need to write high-level logic in the first non-volatile memory area, while detailed command sequences are pre-prepared in the second area. This preliminary preparation of command libraries simplifies programming while maintaining 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 flexible and secure implementation of various IoT applications with enhanced security against hacking, simplifying programming and reducing the need for external micro-controllers.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless interface 5, based on the NFC technology, between the reader 2 and the tag 3
Implementation Method 2
NFC technology has been developed by an industry consortium under the name of NFC Forum (http://www.nfc-forum.ofg) and derives from RFID technology. NFC components may operate in a 'Reader' mode, a 'Card Emulation' mode and a 'Device' mode as standardized in ISO 18.092. An NFC component emits via its Near Field Communication contactless interface magnetic fields, sends data by modulating the amplitude of the magnetic field, and receives data by load modulation and inductive coupling.
Data Source
AI summary
A system that includes a reader and a tag and an IoT device to enable exchange of data and/or energy between the reader and the IoT device using a wireless interface between the reader and the tag and a wired interface between the tag and the IoT device.