Integrating OTP Generation into Credit Card Subsystem

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing one-time password (OTP) authentication systems face slow adoption due to bulky, single-function tokens that users must carry separately, making them inconvenient and resistant to use.

Innovation Solution

Combining an OTP generator with a conventional credit/debit card, incorporating a microprocessor and memory chip, which allows for the generation and display of OTPs, enabling convenient carrying and use without additional personal items.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If OTP tokens are made as separate stand-alone devices, then security authentication function is provided, but device portability and user convenience deteriorate due to bulky size and need to carry additional items

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity authenticationVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the OTP generator functionality with a credit/debit card that users already carry daily. The OTP generation circuit, memory, and display are integrated into the card body, merging two separate functions (payment and authentication) into a single device. This eliminates the need to carry separate OTP tokens while maintaining security authentication capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The credit/debit card is transformed into a multi-functional device that serves both as a payment instrument and as an OTP generator for security authentication. The card maintains its original payment functions while adding OTP generation, display, and authentication capabilities, making it a universal device for both financial transactions and security access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If OTP tokens are made as separate stand-alone devices, then security authentication function is provided, but device complexity increases due to single-function design

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity authenticationVSAvoidsingle-function device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the OTP generation circuitry, memory storage, and display elements into the existing credit/debit card structure. The card's microprocessor and communication interfaces are leveraged to run OTP generation algorithms, eliminating the need for separate dedicated OTP token hardware and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If OTP tokens are made as separate stand-alone devices, then security authentication is provided, but loss of time occurs due to need to locate and carry separate token

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity authenticationVSAvoidtime to locate token
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating OTP generation into the credit/debit card that users already carry in their wallets or pockets, the patent eliminates the time required to locate and retrieve a separate OTP token. The authentication function is immediately accessible whenever the card is present, reducing authentication time and improving user efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8266441B2One-time password credit/debit card
Publication Date: 2012.09.11 BANK OF AMERICA CORP
  • US8266441B2 patent drawing
  • US8266441B2 patent drawing
  • US8266441B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A one-time password (OTP) generator in combination with a conventional credit/debit card comprising a card having a magnetic bar stripe, raised imprint card numbers and name, expiration date and four digit code as are known in the art is provided. Full smart card functionality may also be provided. The card also includes a microprocessor and software, dedicated chip or a memory chip for generating the OTP. A visual and/or audio display is provided on the card to output the OTP to the user. The end user inputs the OTP to access the secured system. The credit/debit card functionality may be used apart from the OTP generator functionality.