RFID Tag Password Verification for Security and Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID systems face high costs and limited flexibility due to the need for specialized circuits and algorithms in closed systems, and the inability to adapt encryption methods in open systems, leading to compatibility issues and increased user burden.
Innovation Solution
An RFID tag with a transmitting/receiving unit, memory, and control unit that uses a first and second identification code, along with a password to switch between open and closed states, allowing data protection without requiring complex built-in circuits or algorithms, enabling users to set passwords and adjust security settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closed RFID system with built-in encrypting/decrypting mechanisms is implemented, then data security is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the encrypting/decrypting circuit from the RFID tag and relocates it to the RFID reader. The tag retains only simple identification code storage and transmission functions, while the reader handles all cryptographic operations. This extraction resolves the contradiction by maintaining data security through centralized encryption while eliminating complex circuits from the tag.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a password-based verification mechanism as an intermediary layer between the tag and reader. Instead of direct cryptographic verification, the system uses a simple password check at the tag side to determine whether to respond to reader requests. This intermediary approach enables security control without requiring complex circuits in the tag.
2Reliability
If built-in encrypting/decrypting algorithms are fixed in the tag and reader, then data protection is improved, but adaptability and flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the algorithm selection and configuration flexibility from the tag to the reader and user level. The tag simply stores identification codes and responds based on password verification results, while the reader and user control which encryption algorithms are used and how they are configured. This enables easy adaptation of security algorithms without modifying tag hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic algorithm selection where the encryption method can be changed by users based on security requirements. The system allows switching between different password verification algorithms and encryption methods without hardware changes, making the security system adaptable to evolving threats and user needs.
3Reliability
If specialized circuits are added to RFID tags for verification mechanisms, then authentication capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the expensive encrypting/decrypting circuit from the RFID tag manufacturing process and relocates it to the RFID reader. The tag is manufactured with only simple memory and communication circuits, significantly reducing tag production costs. The authentication capability is maintained through the reader's cryptographic hardware and the tag's simple password verification logic.
4Ease of operation
If RFID tags use open access without verification, then ease of operation is improved, but data security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial verification where the tag performs a simple password check (partial action) rather than full cryptographic authentication. This simple verification maintains ease of operation for authorized users while providing sufficient security for the application. The full encryption/decryption occurs at the reader side, balancing convenience and security.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective and flexible RFID system that can operate in both open and closed modes, offering high autonomy and management flexibility while maintaining data security, reducing the need for complex hardware and algorithms.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna of the RFID tag receives a radio signal transmitted from an RFID reader within a specific distance, and power needed by a chip circuit is provided by a received radio wave
Implementation Method 2
the chip circuit of the RFID tag automatically interprets the signal received by the antenna and selectively provides data demanded by the RFID reader in the form of a radio signal
Data Source
AI summary
An RFID tag including a transmitting/receiving unit, a memory and a control unit. A first identification code, a second identification code, a password, and a set of data are stored in the memory. If the set of data is under protection, the set of data is accessible only when a verification procedure corresponding to the password is successfully performed. If the transmitting/receiving unit receives a request for accessing the second identification code, the control unit shall check whether the request includes the first identification code. As long as the checking result of the control unit is yes, even if the set of data is under protection and the verification procedure fails or the verification procedure is not successfully performed, the control unit shall still transmit the second identification code via the transmitting/receiving unit.