RFID Security Shim Module for ISO 18000-7 Interrogators and Tags

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Solution Overview

Problem

The ISO 18000-7 standard for radio frequency identification (RFID) systems lacks security measures for wireless messages, making them vulnerable to eavesdropping and interference, and does not allow for proprietary security extensions.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a security shim module in both interrogators and tags that uses encryption and authentication techniques to secure ISO 18000-7 messages without modifying the existing hardware, allowing for secure communication while remaining compliant with the standard.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If encryption and authentication techniques are implemented in RFID systems, then security level is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity levelVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A security shim module is introduced as an intermediary layer between the application layer and the physical layer in both RFID tags and interrogators. This shim module handles encryption and authentication operations, providing security without requiring fundamental changes to the existing RFID system architecture. The shim acts as a mediator that translates secure communication requirements into standard ISO 18000-7 protocol operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If security measures are added to ISO 18000-7 standard compliance systems, then security level is improved, but compatibility with existing standard is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity levelVSAvoidcompatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The security shim module is nested within the existing RFID system architecture, fitting between the application layer and physical layer without disrupting the outer structure. This nested approach allows security functionality to be embedded within the standard-compliant system, maintaining ISO 18000-7 compatibility while adding encryption and authentication capabilities. The shim operates transparently to standard protocol operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If hardware modifications are made to existing RFID systems for security, then security level is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity levelVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical hardware modifications with a software-based security shim module. Instead of changing the physical RFID tags or interrogators, the security functionality is implemented through firmware or software that can be deployed without manufacturing new hardware. This substitution of mechanical/hardware changes with software solutions significantly reduces manufacturing costs while providing the required security level.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8547957B2Method and apparatus for providing security in a radio frequency identification system

Publication Date: 2013.10.01 SAVI TECH INC

AI summary

A part can receive a communication that originates externally of the part, that conforms to a predetermined communications protocol, and that contains payload information consistent with the protocol but subject to a security provision supplemental to the protocol. The part extracts the payload information from the security provision.