Security Chip Dual Non-Volatile Storage for NFC Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices with Near Field Communication (NFC) functions face inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for external non-volatile storage peripherals and complex access mechanisms, as current technologies do not provide cost-effective on-chip storage solutions for NFC configuration parameters.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a security chip with dual non-volatile storage capabilities, where the first storage is accessible only through the security processor for sensitive information and the second storage can be accessed independently, outside the security processor, to store NFC configuration parameters, thus eliminating the need for external storage and reducing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If dedicated external storage peripherals (e.g., EEPROM) are used to store NFC configuration parameters, then the NFC function can be implemented, but extra cost and extra complexity are introduced to the communication device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the NFC configuration storage function with the existing volatile memory resource within the security chip. Instead of using a separate external EEPROM or non-volatile memory peripheral, the invention utilizes the available volatile memory to store both sensitive NFC data and configuration parameters, thereby eliminating the need for additional storage components and reducing overall device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The volatile memory resource within the security chip is designed to serve multiple functions: storing sensitive NFC data that requires security processor control and storing NFC configuration parameters that need to be accessed independently. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated separate storage peripherals, reducing both cost and complexity while maintaining all required functionality.
2Reliability
If all non volatile memories are accessed through the security processor, then security is maintained, but access efficiency is reduced since NFC configuration parameters need to be accessed before the security processor can be activated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory access control mechanism into two distinct pathways: (1) Access to sensitive NFC data remains controlled by the security processor, maintaining security requirements; and (2) Access to NFC configuration parameters is enabled through a separate, independent access path that does not require security processor activation. This segmentation allows configuration parameters to be accessed efficiently during device initialization while sensitive data remains protected.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary access mechanism that allows NFC configuration parameters to be read independently of the security processor. This intermediary path enables the NFC function to obtain necessary configuration data during device boot-up before the security processor is fully activated, while still maintaining security control for sensitive NFC data through the security processor's access control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If a separate external component is used to store NFC configuration parameters, then independent access is enabled, but device place is consumed and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storage of NFC configuration parameters with the existing volatile memory resource within the security chip, eliminating the need for separate external storage components. This merging approach enables independent access to configuration parameters through the security chip's existing interfaces while conserving device space and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a security chip of a communication device, comprising: a near field communication interface (37), a first processing unit (42), a first non volatile storage capability (45), adapted to store first information related to near field communication, and connected to be accessed, from outside the security chip, through said near field communication interface (37), under the control of said first processing unit (42), wherein it also comprises a second non volatile storage capability (48), adapted to store second information related to near field communication different from said first information, and connected to be accessed, from outside the security chip, independently from said first processing unit (42).