Secure Element Power Harvesting via RF Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implementing wireless communications between a mobile communication device and a secure element poses challenges, particularly in ensuring easy message receipt and convenient activation/deactivation of the secure element.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a mobile communication device with a first wireless transceiver and processor, and a secure element with a second wireless transceiver and processor, using different communication protocols for data transmission (packets) and message transmission (messaging protocol) respectively, allowing for bidirectional wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication is implemented between mobile device and secure element, then transaction capability is improved, but message receipt difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary messaging layer that translates between the wireless packet protocol and the secure element's messaging protocol. This intermediary component receives packets from the mobile device, extracts message content, and delivers it to the secure element in a format the secure element can easily process, thereby resolving the message receipt difficulty while maintaining transaction capability.
2Device complexity
If single protocol is used for bidirectional communication, then device complexity is reduced, but communication flexibility worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication protocol into two distinct directional protocols: a packet protocol for mobile device to secure element communication, and a messaging protocol for secure element to mobile device communication. This segmentation allows each protocol to be optimized for its specific direction while simplifying the overall implementation complexity, as each side only needs to implement one protocol for its outgoing communications.
3Reliability
If secure element requires external power source, then operational reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements power harvesting circuitry within the secure element that automatically harvests power from RF signals during wireless communication operations. This self-service power generation eliminates the need for external power sources or manual activation steps, allowing the secure element to become operational automatically when brought near a mobile device, thereby improving both reliability and ease of operation simultaneously.
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
Enables efficient and convenient communication between the mobile device and secure element, facilitating secure transactions and operations such as activation, purchases, and data transmission without network dependency.
Implementation Method 1
The mobile communication device includes a first wireless transceiver... The secure element includes a second wireless transceiver... wirelessly transmitting a packet from the mobile communication device, via the first wireless transceiver, to the secure element
Implementation Method 2
The secure element also includes power harvesting circuitry, adapted to harvest power from ambient radio-frequency (RF) signals
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a system includes a mobile communication device and a secure element physically coupled to the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device includes a first wireless transceiver, first processor, and first memory. The secure element includes a second wireless transceiver, second processor, and second memory. The mobile communication device is configured to transmit data via the first wireless transceiver to the secure element in packets, using a packet protocol. The secure element is configured to transmit data via the second wireless transceiver to the mobile communication device in messages, using a messaging protocol distinct from the packet protocol.