Secure Element Hardware Abstraction for Unified Authentication and Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals frequently carry multiple items such as keys, wallets, and storage devices, which are bulky and require physical interaction, lacking compatibility with existing devices and systems for secure authentication and access.
Innovation Solution
A secure element device that wirelessly communicates with host devices, incorporating a memory and wireless storage module, enabling biometric authentication and providing hardware abstraction to consolidate functionalities like authentication, access control, and data storage, appearing as a storage drive when in proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple items (keys, wallets, storage devices) are carried separately, then each item provides its specific function, but the overall bulk and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional items (authentication keys, wallets, storage devices) into a single secure element device. The secure element integrates cryptographic operations, secure storage, and access control functionalities that previously required separate physical items, thereby reducing the number of items carried while maintaining adaptability across different host devices
Solution Approach 2:
The secure element is designed as a universal device that can perform multiple functions including authentication, data storage, and access control. It can interact with various host devices (vehicles, buildings, computers) through different communication protocols, making it a multi-functional replacement for multiple specialized items
2Ease of operation
If physical interaction with multiple items is required, then each item can be securely handled, but convenience and ease of operation decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical physical interaction (handling multiple physical items) with wireless electronic communication. The secure element communicates with host devices through wireless protocols, eliminating the need for physical insertion or manual handling while maintaining security through cryptographic authentication mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The secure element acts as an intermediary device that mediates between the user and multiple host devices. It provides a unified interface for authentication and data access, simplifying the interaction model while maintaining secure cryptographic protocols for reliable authentication
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices and systems are used separately, then each system operates independently, but compatibility and integration capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The secure element incorporates multiple communication interfaces and protocols (RFID, Bluetooth, NFC, USB) to maintain compatibility with various existing host devices and systems. This universal design enables integration across different platforms without requiring separate specialized devices for each system
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure includes a system and method in which one or more virtual resources are presented to a secure element; and the one or more virtual resources are mapped to available resources based on a model architecture for the secure element in order to provide hardware abstraction, the available physical resources varying based on the model architecture and an associated host device, the virtual resources allowing consistent interaction with the virtual resources regardless of variation in the physical resources available and their location. The hardware abstraction increases the versatility of the secure element and may contribute to the secure element's functionality. The secure element providing functionality to replace most items carried in an individual's pockets, e.g., logical and physical keys, a thumb drive, identification, credit and debit cards, etc.