RFID Ownership Verification via Encrypted Code Matching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID systems cannot effectively prevent theft by ensuring that the person possessing an item is the authorized owner, as they only verify if the item has been purchased but not the identity of the possessor.
Innovation Solution
Attaching a radio frequency identification device (RFID) to items, generating and storing encrypted codes containing ownership information, and using a security reader to verify ownership by matching encrypted codes, allowing only authorized access to private information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional RFID systems are used to track items, then item location and purchase status can be determined, but the system cannot verify the identity of the possessor or prevent theft by unauthorized persons
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by encrypting ownership information and storing it in the RFID tag during the purchase transaction. This pre-established encrypted record enables later verification of ownership without requiring complex real-time authentication infrastructure, thus improving theft prevention while avoiding system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification process where the system compares encrypted ownership information stored in the RFID tag with encryption information derived from current possession data. This intermediary comparison mechanism enables ownership verification without directly exposing sensitive information, enhancing security while maintaining system simplicity.
2Reliability
If encrypted codes are stored in RFID devices for ownership verification, then theft prevention is improved, but the complexity of the system increases due to encryption and verification processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a cryptographic copy of the ownership relationship by encrypting ownership information and storing it in the RFID tag. This encrypted copy serves as a verifiable record of ownership that can be authenticated without requiring access to the original unencrypted data, thereby improving verification accuracy while keeping the system manageable through standard cryptographic operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms ownership information into an encrypted format, changing its parameter state from readable text to cryptographic code. This parameter change enables secure storage and verification while the underlying cryptographic algorithms handle the complexity, presenting a simplified interface for verification operations.
3Reliability
If multiple encrypted codes are used for different items, then comprehensive theft prevention is achieved, but the programming and management of RFID devices becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal encryption approach where a single encryption algorithm and verification process can handle multiple items and ownership scenarios. The encrypted ownership information structure is designed to be consistent across different items, allowing the same verification methodology to be applied universally, thereby achieving comprehensive security coverage while simplifying programming and management through standardized procedures.
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
Effectively prevents theft by ensuring that only the rightful owner can access and possess encrypted information, enhancing security in retail and organizational settings by verifying ownership at the point of sale and exit.
Implementation Method 1
A method and apparatus identifying an item by attaching a radio frequency identification device to the item
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus identifying an item by attaching a radio frequency identification device to the item; obtaining encryption information; generating an encrypted code from the encryption information by a programmer; inserting the encrypted code into the radio frequency identification device by the programmer whereas the encrypted code may be one of a plurality of encrypted codes; attempting to access the radio frequency identification device by a security reader by transmission of another encrypted code to the radio frequency identification device; and responding with a correct access signal by the radio frequency identification device in response to receipt of the other encrypted code if the other encrypted code is same as the inserted encrypted code.