Optical Identification Chip Using Incident Light for Secure Data Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

RFID systems face security and privacy concerns due to the ability of unauthorized devices to read RFID chips, lacking user control over when and if the chips are read.

Innovation Solution

Optical identification elements embedded in objects, comprising a CMOS chip for data management and an optical assembly with a photodetector and VCSEL, powered by incident light, enabling secure and controlled data transmission using infrared frequencies, compatible with existing devices like mobile phones and PDAs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If RFID chips are used for identification, then identification functionality is achieved, but security and privacy control deteriorate because unauthorized devices can read the chips without user consent

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentification functionalityVSAvoidunauthorized reading and privacy loss

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the radio frequency electromagnetic field system with an optical system using visible or infrared light. This substitution allows the identification element to be activated only when light is present, enabling user control through physical observation of the active state and preventing unauthorized reading in dark environments or when the user chooses not to activate it.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The optical identification element operates in periodic cycles - remaining inactive and non-readable until activated by incident light, then transmitting data for a limited duration. This periodic activation pattern, controlled by the presence of light and user action, prevents continuous unauthorized reading while maintaining identification functionality when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

2Adaptability or versatility

If RFID chips are embedded in objects, then tracking and identification capabilities are provided, but user control over when data is read is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking and identification capabilityVSAvoiduser control over data reading

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The optical identification element automatically activates and deactivates based on the presence of incident light without requiring external power sources or complex control circuits. The element serves itself by using the incident light both for activation and for powering the data transmission, giving users simple physical control (presence or absence of light) while maintaining versatile tracking capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Use of energy by moving object

If optical identification elements use incident light for power, then energy independence is achieved, but operation is limited to environments with sufficient light

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy independenceVSAvoidoperational environment flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies that the optical identification element operates with light in the visible or infrared spectrum, which are parameters that can penetrate various materials and environments better than other optical frequencies. This parameter selection allows the element to function in diverse conditions including through transparent packaging, in low-light environments, and with common light sources, balancing energy independence with environmental adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Provides secure and user-controlled identification, addressing privacy concerns by allowing users to determine when data is read, leveraging common devices for functionality similar to RFID systems while ensuring encryption and authentication.

Implementation Method 1

The optical assembly generates a voltage in response to incident light from a reader

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

an optical assembly with a photodetector and VCSEL, powered by incident light, enabling secure and controlled data transmission using infrared frequencies

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight emission from laser diode: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS7819328B2Optical identification chips

Publication Date: 2010.10.26 II VI DELAWARE INC

AI summary

An optical identification element. The optical identification element is associated with an object and includes encoded or stored information associated with the object. The optical identification element includes an optical assembly that generates electrical power in response to incident light from a reader. The generated electrical power is used by the optical identification element to at least retrieve the data and then transmit the data back to the reader optically.